Verona Murphy
Wexford · Independent · Ireland
“As we come to the end of the Dáil term and head into the summer recess, I extend to all Deputies my gratitude for their co-operation. On behalf of all the Members, I thank Elaine Gunn and her large team for their support and hard work.”
“Deputy Malcolm Byrne - to discuss the need for the development of Bunclody Community College, County Wexford. Deputy Marie Sherlock - to discuss the use of periodic payment orders in the courts. Deputy Rory Hearne - to discuss the cessation of the financial contribution scheme in Dublin North-West.”
“I wish to advise the House of the following matters in respect of which notice has been given under Standing Order 39 and the name of the Member in each case: Deputies Ciarán Ahern, Seán Crowe, Paul Murphy, Aengus Ó Snodaigh, James Geoghegan and John Lahart - to discuss the feasibility of continuing MetroLink from the city to south-west D…”
“Agus téarma reatha na Dála ag teacht chun críche, agus sinn ag díriú ar thús an tsamhraidh, táim buíoch do gach Teachta as a gcomhoibriú. Thar ceann na Comhaltaí go léir, gabhaim buíochas le Elaine Gunn agus lena foireann as a dtacaíocht agus an obair mhór a rinne siad.”
“I welcome our special visitors to the Public Gallery. We are joined by members of the family of the late Jennie Poole, in whose memory this Bill is named: her brother, Jason Poole; her parents, Jackie and Joe; her siblings, David and Clare; and her precious children, Nevaeh and Zack.”
“That was the final Taoiseach’s questions until we come back in September. I thank the Taoiseach for his co-operation with all the Members. I wish him a very successful recess, particularly as he will be very busy with EU Presidency business and his normal business.”
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“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to the motion regarding expanding access to general practitioner care. On Wednesday, 25 February 2026, on the question, "That the amendment to the motion be agreed to", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to Second Stage of the Commission on the Future of the Family Farm Bill 2024 which took place on Thursday, 19 February 2026. On the question, "That the amendment to the motion be made", a division was claimed, and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“As it is 11 p.m. and the time for the debate has concluded, I am required to put the following question in accordance with the order of the Dáil of 24 February: "That the amendments set down by the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and not disposed of are hereby made to the Bill; in respect of each of the sections undisposed of, other than section 141, which is hereby deleted, that the section or, as appropriate, the section, as amended, is hereby agreed to; the Title, as amended, is hereby agreed to; the Bill, as amended, is accordingly reported to the House; Fourth Stage is hereby completed; and the Bill is hereby passed."”
“I thank the Taoiseach. As there has been a precedent set to diverge from Standing Orders on Taoiseach's Questions and there was no change at the Standing Order Committee, I propose that I will take the 18 Deputies, or those present, for a minute each, and the Taoiseach will respond. However, after the Easter session I will revert to Standing Orders at 15 minutes per question in the absence of agreement from the Standing Order Dáil reform committee. We will begin with Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett.”
“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to Second Stage of the Work Life Balance (Right to Remote Work) Bill 2026, taken on Wednesday, 18 February 2026. On the question, "That the Bill be now read a Second Time", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to the motion regarding ban on investment funds purchasing family homes. On Tuesday, 17 February 2026, on the question, "That the amendment to the motion be agreed to", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to Second Stage of the Quality in Public Procurement (Contract Preparation and Award Criteria) Bill 2021, taken on Thursday, 12 February 2026. On the question, "That the Bill be now read a Second Time", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“Only one amendment was tabled for Report Stage, by Deputies Ruth Coppinger, Richard Boyd Barrett, and Paul Murphy. That amendment has been ruled out of order on the grounds of non-relevance to the provisions of the Bill and it does not arise out of Committee Stage proceedings. Accordingly, there are no amendments on Report Stage.”
“As discussed earlier, amendments Nos. 1 and 11 would both require that the Minister carry out reports and administrative matters and lay these reports before the Houses before the Act or provisions thereof can be commenced. It is a long-established precedent that the commencement of an Act cannot be made contingent on an administrative matter external to the Houses, and that is to say contingent on a matter that is outside the control of the Houses themselves. As this is in conflict with the general principles of the Bill as read a Second Time, the amendments must be ruled out of order in accordance with Standing Order 194(1) as they are in conflict with the principle of the Bill as read a Second Time.”
“Deputy Kelly has stated that the "free of charge" reference he used was taken from a Government regulation, but Government regulations are not subject to Standing Orders, under which the Bills Office decides whether amendments are in order.”
“I am just about to read the reason. I thank the Deputy. Amendment No. 9 would insert a new definition for "legal counselling", a term used later in the Bill. This definition would provide that such services would be provided to persons free of charge irrespective of a person's ability to secure legal services by their own means. Amendment No. 47 in the name of Deputy Kelly forms a composite proposal with amendment No. 9, inserting a reference to these "legal counselling" services into section 26 of the Bill. Such "free" legal services would have to be provided at the expense of the State. It needs to be understood that the amendments must be ruled out of order in accordance with Standing Order 219(3) as they have the potential to impose a charge on the Revenue.”
“I will read the note for the Deputy. It states: "Amendment No. 6 would insert a new definition for legal counselling, a term used later in the Bill, but this definition would provide that such services be provided to persons without charge to the applicant, irrespective of a person's ability to secure legal services by their own means." Unfortunately, that is where the money message comes in. It has been checked.”
“Before I move to the Minister of State, I remind Members we should try to keep the debate to discussion of the amendments proposed. I know we have eight hours but I say this given the controversy raised last week with regard to Committee Stage and how nobody should be, I suppose, taking advantage of the time.”
“I must now deal with a deferred division relating to the Second Reading motion on the International Protection Bill 2026, taken on Thursday, 12 February. On the question, "That the Bill be now read a Second Time", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“Before we move to Other Members' Questions, I have a message to welcome the guests from Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí in Tralee. They are guests of Deputy Pa Daly but I am reliably informed the Minister of State, Deputy Michael Moynihan's wife is a teacher there. They are very welcome.”
“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to the motion regarding the cost-of-living crisis. On Thursday, 5 February 2026, on the question, "That the amendment to the motion be agreed to", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to Second Stage of the Regulation of Drones Bill 2025, which was taken on Thursday, 29 January 2026. On the question, "That the amendment to the motion be made", a division was claimed, and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“The Select Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, and Taoiseach has completed its consideration of the following Revised Estimate for Public Services for the service of the year ending on 31 December 2026: Vote 13 - Office of Public Works.”
“As the time permitted for this debate having expired, I am required to put the following question in accordance with an order of the Dáil of 10 February 2026: "That in respect of each of the sections undisposed of the section is hereby agreed to in committee; the Title is hereby agreed to in committee; the Bill is accordingly reported to the House without amendment; Fourth Stage is hereby completed; and the Bill is hereby passed."”
“I must now deal with a deferred division relating to Second Stage of the Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026, taken on Thursday, 5 February 2026. On the question, "That the Bill be now read a Second Time", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“I ask the Members for their attention. This debate will conclude in 30 minutes. We may, however, conclude prior to that, in which case we will have one deferred division on the Residential Tenancies Bill 2026 before we move to the substantive debate.”
“That concludes Leaders' Questions. Before I move to the next business, I welcome the former CEO of PepsiCo Ireland, Mr. Frank O'Mahony, who is in the Gallery. That is from Deputy O'Sullivan. Mr. O'Mahony is very welcome. This is a very important time for a new Deputy, Deputy Eoghan Kenny, who will introduce his very first Private Members' Bill.”
“The Deputy needs to go back and forth on the topic. He should not ask a question on policy and legislation if he is going to engage like that. Every Member understands the structure of the debate. The time is up.”
“Before calling Deputy McDonald, I welcome to the Distinguished Visitors Gallery the Canadian ambassador, H.E. Dennis King, who is on a scheduled visit. Although I spoke to him earlier this morning, I take a moment to convey from us all our heartfelt sympathy following the tragic incident that occurred yesterday in British Columbia. The ambassador should know that the victims, the injured, their families and the whole community of Tumbler Ridge are in our thoughts and prayers. I thank him for being with us.”
“I welcome, on behalf of Deputy Thomas Gould, a further contingent of students from UCC and Trinity College. Everybody in the Gallery is very welcome. I call Deputy Mary Lou McDonald. If you cannot make your point in one minute, you have asked the question in the wrong forum.”
“Before I move to the Order of Business, Deputy Collins has a number of guests in the Gallery. They are students from University College Cork's government and politics society. You are very welcome indeed.”
“Very good. They are not known for their singing ability, Mick. Before we move to Questions on Policy or Legislation, the Taoiseach would like to say a few words, as would Deputy McDonald and Deputy Carrigy, who requested this on behalf of the committee he represents. We will then move on.”
“-----and he is a keen golfer, so there will be lots to do. During his time here, Mick has seen off eight taoisigh, eight Cinn Comhairle and four Presidents who have gone before him. On behalf of the Members and the staff, I wish Mick a very long and happy retirement but. also, it is actually his birthday today.”
“To take a moment of your time, I want to say a very special "thank you" today to Mick O'Brien. Mick O'Brien has worked here in the Oireachtas for 32 years and today he retires. Mick began his time here as a service officer. He became an usher in 1997 and was promoted to usher team leader and then deputy head usher and office keeper in 2005. In 2016, he became the project facilitator who oversaw the restoration of the historical Leinster House from the Oireachtas side, a task he undertook with great pride. Mick retires today to spend time with his lovely wife, Lorraine, his daughters, Michelle and Jennifer, and his son, Karl. He also has five grandchildren, who no doubt will keep him very active and busy. Mick is an avid fan of Liverpool Football Club-----”
“Deputy Malcolm Byrne - To discuss actions taken by Government in relation to ongoing human rights abuses by the Chinese Communist Party against the Uyghurs. Deputy Barry Ward - To discuss the shortfall of SEN primary school places in Shankill, County Dublin. Deputy Jen Cummins - To discuss core funding for Ballyfermot Youth Service. Deputy Paul McAuliffe - To discuss the illegal use of scrambler bikes on roads. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú - To discuss wastewater infrastructure and capacity issues causing flooding in Dundalk. The matters raised by Deputies Ruairí Ó Murchú, Mark Wall, Barry Ward, Jen Cummins and Albert Dolan have been selected for discussion.”
“I wish to advise the House of the following matters in respect of which notice has been given under Standing Order 39 and the name of the Member in each case: Deputy Michael Murphy - To discuss serious non-compliance with road traffic legislation. Deputy Michael Cahill - To discuss funding to bring the main N70 in Caherciveen town and the footpaths up to standard. Deputy Mark Wall - To discuss the lack of special school places across Kildare South. Deputy Paula Butterly - To discuss the statutory instrument required to give effect to increases to the CIÉ pension schemes. Deputy Shane Moynihan - To discuss enhancing public transport links between Lucan and the airport. Deputy Albert Dolan - To discuss the recurring electricity outages in north Galway.”
“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to the motion regarding an emergency winter payment for disabled people. On Wednesday, 28 January 2026, on the question, "That the amendment to the motion be agreed to", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to Second Stage of the River Boyne Task Force Bill 2023, taken on Thursday, 22 January 2026. On the question, "That the Bill be now read a Second Time", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“I understand it is proposed to refer this Bill to the Select Committee on Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, pursuant to Standing Orders 103 and 188. Will the Minister move the motion of referral now?”
“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to Second Stage of the Criminal Law and Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026, taken on Thursday, 22 January 2026. On the question, "That the Bill be now read a Second Time", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“I am sorry, Deputy, but I just want to be sure you know there are minors in the Gallery and that their chaperones are aware of the content of the discussion. Please continue. I am sorry for interrupting.”
“Copies of the speech are on the way. Deputies can rest assured that I will deal with this at the Business Committee next Thursday. I have already informed the Chief Whip's office that all speeches will be disseminated to Members prior to the speech or as the speech begins.”
“I now deal with the deferred division relating to the ministerial amendment to the motion regarding flexible work and commuter delays. Earlier today on the question, "That the amendment be made", a division was claimed and that division must now be taken.”
“I must now deal with a deferred division relating to the ministerial amendment to the Second Reading motion on the Sale of Nitrous Oxide and Related Products Bill 2025. On the question, "That the amendment be made", a division was claimed. That division must now be taken.”
“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to Second Stage of the Derelict Sites (Amendment) Bill 2022, taken on Thursday, 15 January 2026. On the question, "That the Bill be now read a Second Time", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“Thanks. I appreciate that. We have a number of Members missing. We will stick to the time. If someone does not turn up, the benefit will go to whoever is left in the group. I call Deputy Conway-Walsh to begin the Sinn Féin slot.”
“Deputy Pa Daly has requested copies of the speeches of the Minister and Minister of State. I think we have an agreement that opening statements will be provided. Maybe we could get them before the end of the debate.”
“Deputy Dessie Ellis - To discuss funding for the breakfast club for St. Malachy's MNS, Finglas south, Dublin 11. Deputy Louise O'Reilly - To discuss the labour market conditions faced by young people. Deputy Robert O'Donoghue - To discuss waiting times for children awaiting speech and language therapy assessments in CHO 9. Deputies Joanna Byrne, Conor D. McGuinness - To discuss losses of connectivity for vulnerable people using a health monitoring or pendant alarm. The matters raised by Deputies Gary Gannon, Louise O'Reilly, Joanna Byrne and Conor D. McGuinness, and Rose Conway-Walsh and Dessie Ellis have been selected for discussion”
“I wish to advise the House of the following matters in respect of which notice has been given under Standing Order 39 and the name of the Member in each case: Deputy Jen Cummins - To discuss core funding for Ballyfermot Youth Service. Deputy Louis O'Hara - To discuss the development of equine therapy facilities at the Toghermore Campus in Tuam, County Galway. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh - To discuss funding for a nurture room at St. Brendan's College, Belmullet. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan - To discuss the ongoing use and misuse of e-scooter vehicles in urban areas. Deputy Gary Gannon - To discuss drug-related intimidation and associated violence. Deputy Sean Fleming - To discuss the need for womens' refuge accommodation in Portlaoise. Deputy Tom Brabazon - To discuss section 39 arrangements for healthcare assistants.”
“Before I move to the next speaker, I welcome our visitors to the Gallery. They look like minors. They are very welcome. I am not sure where they are from. I am going to leave it up to their chaperone but we are having a debate on AI and the recent Grok controversy. It may or not involve some explicit detail and it is up to the visitors' chaperone as to whether or not they stay and hear the content.”
“Before I move on, I welcome Baroness Margaret Curran of Townhead in the city of Glasgow and Mr. Chris Murray, an MP from Edinburgh East, who are in the Visitors Gallery as guests of Deputy Conor Sheehan. They are most welcome to the Parliament. I call Deputy Paul Murphy.”
“Before we move to the next Deputy, I advise Members to be aware there are some young attendees in our Gallery. The usher will advise their chaperone that this may not be an appropriate debate, I am afraid. We do welcome you, other than that. I call Deputy Ryan O'Meara.”
“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to the motion regarding Uisce Éireann infrastructure delivery, accountability and repair timelines. On Wednesday, 14 January 2026, on the question "That the amendment to the motion be agreed to", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“I must now deal with a postponed division relating to a motion on the Mercosur trade agreement, taken on Tuesday, 13 January 2026. On the question, "That the amendment to the amendment to the motion be agreed to", a division was claimed and in accordance with Standing Order 85(2), that division must be taken now.”
“Before I call the Minister of State, I remind Members that under Salient Ruling 342, the production of exhibits or displays, such as newspapers, postcards, placards or anything like that, is strongly not recommended. I call the Minister of State, Deputy Richmond.”