Displaying items by tag: Micheál Martin

Ireland’s political landscape is bracing for a showdown over Ceann Comhairle (Speaker) Verona Murphy, whose role is under fire amid a prolonged row over speaking rights in the Dáil. Since January, tensions have mounted, and now five main opposition parties have united to table a no-confidence motion, claiming bias and procedural failings. Murphy, a former haulier, responded defiantly, rejecting accusations of collusion and affirming her commitment to impartiality and parliamentary procedure. The government, led by Taoiseach Micheál Martin, is standing firmly behind her. Martin criticised the opposition - particularly Sinn Féin - for disruptive conduct and accused them of undermining democratic norms. Murphy is expected to survive the vote, but the battle has exposed deep divides, threatening to paralyse parliamentary function and leaving her position weakened, even if technically secure. Both sides are now entrenched, and further political drama appears inevitable in the days ahead.

Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin met Keir Starmer in Liverpool ahead of a historic UK-Irish summit. The event brings together cabinet members from both governments to strengthen ties in trade, energy, and security. Discussions will focus on economic growth, investment, and cooperation in renewable energy, technology, AI, and security. A new data-sharing agreement will be announced to boost offshore energy production. Additionally, Ireland will unveil £185.5 million in investments in the UK, expected to create over 2,500 jobs. The summit is taking place amid heightened security concerns in Europe. Martin praised Starmer’s leadership, emphasising the importance of peace and international cooperation. Starmer expressed his commitment to deepening UK-Irish relations, stating that previous ties had not reached their full potential. This meeting marks a new era of collaboration, reinforcing economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations. The summit concludes before Martin attends a European Council meeting in Brussels.