McGrath critical of delay in appointing Leas Ceann Comhairle

Independent TD Mattie McGrath has criticised the delay in appointing a Leas Ceann Comhairle of the Dáil.

Mr McGrath, who is one of four candidates, said the vacancy is “undesirable” and undermined the spirit of genuine reform.

In a letter to all members the Tipperary TD said: “It must also be said the office of Ceann Comhairle is deserving of more immediate support, which in the absence of a Leas-Ceann Comhairle, it is not receiving. A vote took place for the position over two weeks ago. However none of the four candidates were chosen.

The vote has been taken off the agenda for the Dáil.

It is understood Fine Gael is willing to support Mr McGrath's bid in return for his support for the Government.

The Independent TD is now asking members to sign a petition supporting his nomination as a ’compromise candidate’.

It is understood he has a number of Independent TDs including Minister for Transport Shane Ross and Minister of State at the Department of Health Finian McGrath's signature.

The other three candidates are Fianna Fail TD Pat 'the Cope' Gallagher, Sinn Féin TD Sean Crowe and Fine Gael TD Bernard Durkan.