Photograph: Stephen Collins/CollinsThe Seanad was suspended twice in a heated row over an extended vote deadline, which allowed eight Government Senators who were late, get to the chamber. The vote was called on one of a series of amendments from Independent Senator Lynn Ruane to the Defamation Bill. A vote can only be taken by the Cathaoirleach or Leas Chathaoirleach, in this instance Leas Chathaoirleach Maria Byrne. But Ms Ruane said she had been a Senator for 10 years and they had “always abided by the time”. It was then suspended for a further 30 minutes when Ms Ruane said there had been no engagement “to bring any sort of resolution”.

Source: The Irish Times December 04, 2025 04:10 UTC