The Government is proposing changes to the Dáil speaking time allocations, particularly for Independent TDs aligned with the Coalition, referred to as the 'Lowry lackeys.' The proposal aims to create a separate Leaders' Questions for these TDs, granting them 16 minutes of speaking time over three weeks. However, the Opposition is resisting this measure, apprehensive that it could lead to less challenging questions directed at the Taoiseach. Despite the Government's efforts to amend standing orders, the Opposition remains steadfast against the changes, reflecting ongoing tensions in the Dáil.
The latest Government proposals are aimed at resolving the row over Dáil speaking time for the so-called 'Lowry lackeys' - Independent TDs supporting the Coalition.
Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik labelled the group led by Tipperary TD Michael Lowry as 'Lowry lackeys' - a comment on Tuesday in the Dáil that she then withdrew.
The Government proposals to resolve the row over Dáil speaking time would effectively see the creation of a separate Leaders' Questions for Government-supporting Independent TDs, although the Government denies this.
The Opposition has indicated it will not budge on the proposal that risks giving the Michael-Lowry-led group speaking time during which they would be able to put 'softball' questions.
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