New-look Dáil returns to business

The new-look Dáil will begin its first full week of parliamentary business today.

The new-look Dáil will begin its first full week of parliamentary business today.

Business on the parliamentary schedule this week includes new legislation reforming stamp duty for first-time buyers.

Legislative proposals creating three additional Minister of State posts is also due to be rubber-stamped by TDs.

Other business between today and Thursday includes statements on the European Council and nominations for the deputy Ceann Comhairle position.

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Three-time Taoiseach Bertie Ahern will face questions from Opposition leaders Enda Kenny of Fine Gael and Pat Rabbitte of Labour.

Former Fianna Fáil backbenchers like Pat Carey, John McGuinness and Maire Hoctor will be sitting in the junior minister benches behind their reappointed Cabinet colleagues.

Almost 40 first-time TDs will also be moving into their Leinster House offices and familiarising themselves with the Dáil.

The Dáil last met on June 14th when Mr Ahern was elected Taoiseach and the new Cabinet was nominated. The House is expected to sit for the next two weeks before rising for its lengthy summer recess until late September.