Procedural row follows defeat in Seanad

SEANAD REPORT:THE OPPOSITION'S Seanad victory yesterday on the charities Bill led to a protracted procedural wrangle.

Frances Fitzgerald (FG) said it was a historic victory for the Opposition, while party colleague Jerry Buttimer said it was a victory for sport following the Government’s defeat in an electronic vote.

Diarmuid Wilson (FF), Government Chief Whip, then called for a walk-through vote, whereby members of the House would vote in the traditional fashion by walking through the Yes and No lobbies.

This was an attempt to reverse the earlier vote.

When the Cathaoirleach Pat Moylan called for a debate on the next section and amendment, Donnie Cassidy (FF) asked on what grounds the request for a walk-through vote was turned down.

Mr Moylan said he was not happy that it complied with standing orders. “I announced the result of the vote and called for the next amendment.

“As far as I am concerned, the system worked effectively. That is my view.’’

Mr Cassidy said he accepted the Cathaoirleach’s ruling.

“However, by what procedure should the Government whip have requested a walk-through vote? He requested it as soon as possible.’’

Mr Moylan said as soon as he made the announcement, he called the next amendment.

“It may be the case that I did not see Senator Wilson indicating but, as far as I am concerned, nobody called for a ‘walk-through’ vote.’’ Mr Buttimer said the chair was impartial, and Government members should respect the chair.

Mr Moylan said: “I made a ruling on this matter in fairness to everyone. That was the way I saw it. I made the announcement and called the next amendment.’’

Ms Fitzgerald said the Government had lost the vote. “This is disgraceful behaviour in the chamber.’’

Mr Wilson said that he had genuinely stood to request a walk-through vote prior to the Cathaoirleach announcing the result of the division.

“I accept and understand that he did not see me. I have no difficulty with that.’’

Ms Fitzgerald said that there could not be ongoing questioning of the Cathaoirleach’s authority if the House was to have legitimacy.

“This is a democracy. Just because one does not like the result of a vote, one cannot start questioning the Cathaoirleach,’’ Ms Fitzgerald said.

Mr Moylan said he wanted to be 100 per cent clear in stating that he did not see Mr Wilson.

The House then adjourned.