TDs may defy code - Wallace

INDEPENDENT TD Mick Wallace has predicted some members of the Dáil’s technical group will defy forthcoming dress code regulations for Leinster House.

The Wexford-based TD and property developer, whose trademark look features a pink shirt or T-shirt, said he strongly disapproved of the new rules proposed by the Committee on Procedure and Privileges.

The incoming regulations, which are expected to be approved by a majority in the Dáil, will compel deputies to wear business clothes and will ban denim.

“I don’t see people being dictated to in this fashion. I think it will be very wrong for us to just roll over. They want us to look like them. I don’t think we should all dress the same. I don’t think they should all wear T-shirts or pink,” Mr Wallace said.

Mr Wallace said he found the temperature in Leinster House “astronomically” warm after many years working on building sites. He said would not be comfortable working in a jacket and tie, adding that he did not own a tie.