Micheál Martin's nomination to become next Taoiseach delayed

Micheál Martin is expected to be nominated by the Dáil as Taoiseach today, marking the Fianna Fáil leader’s second term in the position.

However, proceedings have been delayed after Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy suspended the Dáil twice, following vocal rows over Opposition speaking time and plans to adjourn the Dáil for two weeks.

“We have not had a functioning government, we haven’t been able to hold ministers to account for over three months now,” said Sinn Fein's Pearse Doherty, regarding the latter issue of adjourning the Dáil until February 5.

“Despite coming off protracted and lengthy recess during the Christmas break, we have now heard that we will meet for a couple of hours tomorrow and then go into another recess for a week. That is not acceptable.”

Opposition TDs have also expressed frustration over speaking rights for Independent TDs. After suspending the Dáil for 15 minutes, the Ceann Comhairle stated that she'd deal with the issue "expeditiously", leading to further uproar in the chamber and another suspension - which lasted an hour until proceedings resumed just after 1pm.

"This is a test of you, Ceann Comhairle, and so far, you are failing." one TD is heard saying.

The election of Toaiseach is not expected to take place until after 4pm this evening, followed by the announcement of the cabinet after 8pm.

Micheál Martin was expected to be officially appointed as Taoiseach by President Michael D Higgins later today, before returning to the Dáil and announcing the final composition of the Cabinet.

Martin first became a TD after his election in 1989 for Cork South-Central. In 2011, he succeeded Brian Cowen as the leader of Fianna Fáil, remaining in this role to present. He took to the office of Taoiseach for the first time in 2020, leaving the role in 2022 to become Tánaiste. In 2027, if he is nominated today, he will hand the role over to Fine Gael leader Simon Harris.