WATCH: Chaotic scenes in the Dáil as Ceann Comhairle suspends proceedings twice!
Election of new Taoiseach delayed amid row over opposition speaking rights
The election of Micheál Martin as Taoiseach has been delayed after the Ceann Comhairle was forced to twice suspend the Dáil amid chaotic scenes.
The first sitting of the 34th Dáil this year, which began at 11am this Wednesday, descended in chaos within minutes amid a row over speaking rights for the group of regional TDs who have indicated their support for the Draft Programme for Government.
Amid angry scenes, during which a number of TDs voiced their concerns, Verona Murphy suspended the 15 minutes. Following its resumption, there were chaotic scenes once again - forcing another suspension for 30 minutes.
As of 12.30pm, the formal process which will see the Fianna Fail leader appointed as Taoiseach has yet to begin and it's unclear what the new timetable is and when the new Cabinet will be announced.
Members of the opposition have called an urgent meeting of the business committee, and want an earlier date than February 5 for a decision regarding the speaking rights for the Regional Independents Technical Group.
Once the dust settles and Mr Martin is nominated by the Dáil, he will travel to Áras an Uachtaráin where he will be formally appointed to the office by President Michael D Higgins.
Afterwards, Mr Martin will return to the Dáil to finalise the makeup of the Cabinet which will be announced in the chamber later on Wednesday evening
The Cork South Central TD is set to continue in the role of Taoiseach until November 2027, when the post will rotate to Fine Gael leader Simon Harris.