This is the lower house of the Oireachtas. There are 166 elected TDs in the Dáil. The Dáil is responsible for electing the Taoiseach, approving the Taoiseach's nominees for ministerial positions and approving the budget.
The whip system – where TDs must vote with their party position or risk expulsion – is the subject of some debate in political circles but immediate reform, ahead of potentially divisive abortion debate, appears unlikely.
After a string of tribunals, political scandals and economic catastrophes, reports of Fianna Fail’s death were greatly exaggerated – but why? asks Maura Adshead.
“I, as Taoiseach, on behalf of the State, the government and our citizens deeply regret and apologise unreservedly to all those women for the hurt that was done to them…”
TDs will reconvene after 10pm tonight to discuss plans to transfer IBRC’s assets to NAMA – as part of a deal to replace the promissory notes with long-term Government bonds.
The Houses of the Oireachtas ICT unit is investigating a possible attempt to hack the voicemail boxes of Oireachtas members and their staff in Leinster House.
“The majority of people in this country consume alcohol in a moderate, responsible manner that is entirely compatible with a healthy lifestyle and in line with European norms,” said Kathryn D’Arcy, director of Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland.
Some people can no longer afford to drink alcohol, others could be looking after their health, while many have suggested that the reduction in consumption could be related to emigration rates.
So today we want to know what do you think. Have you reduced your alcohol consumption in the past year?
Cloudy with a few showers
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