Opposition leaders demand meeting over Dáil speaking changes

Leaders from various opposition parties are asking for an urgent meeting with Taoiseach Micheál Martin. They want to discuss a serious disagreement over speaking rights in the Dáil, Ireland's parliament. The government is accused of trying to make changes to Dáil standing orders without proper consultation. These changes would allow independent members who support the coalition to have speaking time alongside Fine Gael and Fianna Fail backbenchers. The conflict started when it was revealed that the government wanted to let these aligned independents join an opposition group for speaking time. Opposition parties argue that these independents should be treated as part of the government, not the opposition. The coalition defends its position, claiming these independents are neither fully aligned with the government nor the opposition. They propose new rules for a group called “other members” to receive speaking rights. The dispute will be addressed in the Dáil on Tuesday. Meanwhile, opposition leaders including Mary Lou McDonald of Sinn Féin, Ivana Bacik of Labour, and others have written to Martin. They remind him of a previous commitment that any changes would be discussed with the opposition. They express disappointment with the government's actions, accusing it of undermining democracy. They argue that their amendment would ensure fair speaking opportunities while preserving the democratic processes. The opposition leaders await Martin's immediate response.