Dáil sketch: Season of goodwill envelops Leinster House with brief Christmas truce

A brief, first World War- type truce was declared in the Dáil yesterday, but there was no crossing of enemy lines for mulled wine.

The truce was preceded by Opposition Leaders’ Questions and attempts to have the Government eat humble pie, rather than mince pies, on a number of issues. Tánaiste Joan Burton replied in kind. It was political warfare with no prisoners taken.

Then came the order of business and the agreement on the short truce, suggested by the Tánaiste.

“As this is the season of goodwill, I am sure everybody will listen to the order of business with a great sense of goodwill and, as happened in the first World War, set aside their hostilities,’’ she said.

There was a loud, good-humoured response from the Opposition. "Is the Tánaiste going to sing?'' asked Fianna Fáil's Dara Calleary.

Instead of singing, Burton announced the Dáil Christmas break. The House would return on Wednesday, January 14th, at 2.30pm.

However, if the Water Services Bill was sent back with amendments from the Seanad, the Dáil would sit for two hours next Tuesday to consider them, she added.

“No comment,’’ said Independent TD Finian McGrath, somewhat enigmatically.

Judging by their expressions, the TDs will not thank the Senators for that legislative work, however praiseworthy.

The temporary truce was observed by all sides.

“I wish the Tánaiste and her colleagues in this House and the other House and their families every good wish for Christmas and the New Year,’’ said Calleary.

The Tánaiste wished her parliamentary colleagues a happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year, extended best wishes and thanks to Ceann Comhairle Seán Barrett and Leas-Cheann Comhairle Michael Kitt, as well as to the staff who served the members so very well.

Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald was not present. Her mild-mannered colleague Jonathan O’Brien extended season’s greetings to Burton, her colleagues and the staff.

Hostilities resume after Christmas.