Independent Ireland denies interrupting Government’s female TDs

By Grainne Ni Aodha, Press Association

Independent Ireland has rejected accusations that its TDs “repeatedly shouted over” female members of the Government after a complaint was sent to the Ceann Comhairle.

The Social Democrats wrote to Verona Murphy on Thursday to express their concern at shouting and the “disorderly” atmosphere in the Dáil on Tuesday, when a confidence vote in the Government was held.

They raised concerns about a “pattern of interruptions” directed at women in particular, and disappointment in the behaviour of Independent Ireland TDs who “contributed significantly to the disruption”.

This type of behaviour would not be tolerated in other workplaces and should absolutely not be tolerated in Dail Eireann

Independent Ireland said it was “unfortunate that a member of the opposition has decided to attempt to distract from the real issues at hand and play the Government’s game on this issue”.

“We will respond in full through the appropriate channels,” it added.

In the letter sent to the Ceann Comhairle, TD for Dublin South-Central Jen Cummins said: “In particular, I was troubled by the repeated instances of deputies shouting over one another, which created a disorderly and unproductive atmosphere.

“Of greatest concern was the pattern of interruptions directed at women TDs, which undermines both respectful discourse and the principle of equal participation in parliamentary debate.

“I was especially disappointed by the behaviour exhibited by members of Independent Ireland, whose actions contributed significantly to the disruption.

“They repeatedly shouted over women TDs from the Government. The volume of their shouting meant the TD whose time it was could not be heard.

“Such conduct detracts from the seriousness of the issues being discussed and sets a very poor example for public engagement in democratic processes.

“This type of behaviour would not be tolerated in other workplaces and should absolutely not be tolerated in Dáil Éireann.

“The Dáil should represent the highest standards of respectful debate, where all elected representatives are afforded the opportunity to speak and be heard without intimidation or interruption.

“When these standards are not upheld, it risks eroding the health of our democracy.

“I respectfully urge you to take appropriate measures to reinforce standards of conduct within the chamber and to ensure that all deputies, regardless of gender or political affiliation, are treated with the respect they deserve.

“I am also sending this letter to the Committee on Parliamentary Privileges and Oversight.”

At the beginning of the debate on the motion of confidence, Murphy said every TD who speaks “is entitled to fair hearing”.

“Our constituents expect this debate will be conducted in a respectful manner and I ask that all members cooperate.

“Civility is not a weakness, but it is mandatory.”