Changes expected to Dáil code after use of 'f-word'

CHANGES ARE likely to be made to the document dictating acceptable parliamentary language in the Dáil and Seanad after Green Party TD Paul Gogarty’s defence of his use of an expletive in the Dáil last week.

The 18-member Dáil committee on procedure and privileges, which meets tomorrow, will deal with Mr Gogarty’s use of the “f-word”, directed against Labour party whip Emmet Stagg.

Ceann Comhairle Seamus Kirk, chairman of the committee, has referred the issue to the committee, which was already scheduled to meet this week.

Mr Gogarty, who apologised before and after swearing, said the f-word was not one of the abusive expressions outlawed in the 83-page document Salient Rulings of the Chair. The controversy has drawn attention to the document, last edited in 2006, and much of which is considered old-fashioned.

An Oireachtas spokesman said the committee “is responsible for maintaining the behaviour and conduct of members. Any situation in which the dignity and decorum of the House is infringed can be examined by the committee.”

The spokesman could not confirm whether the document would be changed, but it is expected that a number of changes are likely.

Mr Stagg, a member of the committee because he is party whip, said he would seek a ruling from the Ceann Comhairle about his attendance at the meeting, since he was affected by the issue.

Mr Stagg said: “I think the whole thing is a storm in a teacup. The huge issue is the Social Welfare Bill and its nasty cuts.”

He recalled a time when the late Jim Tunny was Leas Cheann Comhairle and Mr Stagg had protested against income tax being imposed on farm labourers.

“I used a well-known phrase that it was like rubbing a fat pig’s arse with lard.” A row erupted and it was agreed to state “fat pig’s posterior”. He said there had been numerous breaches of the rules, which for instance forbid calling deputies by their name without the prefix “deputy”.

Salient Rulingsalso includes rules on personal statements, and political and personal charges.