ieExplains: What is the Ceann Comhairle and what do they do?
Seán Ó Fearghaíl is the current Ceann Comhairle.
When a new Dáil is created, the first order of business is to elect the Ceann Comhairle. Ceann Comhairle, meaning Head of Council, acts as speaker or presiding officer for the Dáil.
The Ceann Comhairle holds an important role within the Dáil chamber, they are the sole judge of order within the Dáil, which comes with a range of powers. They are voted for by a secret ballot.
They are granted a position of authority and they must act impartially to avoid any misconduct.
Other roles of the Ceann Comhairle include:
- Calling on members within the Dáil to speak
- Putting questions to the House as required
- Supervising divisions and declares results of votes
The Ceann Comhairle also has the authority to enforce rulings and can order members to withdraw from the House or give suspensions if rules are broken.
When deputies are out of order, the Ceann Comhairle rings a bell. The current bell in use is a half-sized reproduction of the ancient bell of Lough Lene Castle, Westmeath which can now be found in the National Museum.
They can also suspend or adjourn the house for a period of time if necessary.
The first act of business by the Ceann Comhairle is to formally open the sitting each day by reading the official prayer.
Each sitting is lead by an order paper which is prepared by the Ceann Comhairle. The order paper consists of various motions, amendments and parliamentary questions, all examined individually to ensure they comply with the house standing orders.
The Ceann Comhairle has the power to shorten the notice needed for motions and amendments.
The Ceann Comhairle does not take part in debate or vote, except in the event of a tie. In the case of a tie, they usually vote with reference to the parliamentary conventions, which normally results in them voting against motions.
The Ceann Comhairle must be an impartial figure. In order to maintain this, the Constitution states that they must not seek re-election as a TD but are automatically re-elected by their constituency at the following election, unless in the case of retirement.
The first Ceann Comhairle was Cathal Brugha, who served in the role for just one day. Seán Ó Fearghaíl is the current Ceann Comhairle.
The position has a salary of €108,987 on top of expenses and allowances of €135,980. The Taoiseach is paid €230,372 annually.
When the Ceann Comhairle is absent, the Leas-Cheann Comhairle deputises. The current Leas-Cheann Comhairle is Catherine Connolly.
