The Ceann Comhairle has written to all parties, urging them to bring the speaking rights row to an end.

The Dáil reform committee meets this afternoon to debate the proposals for Michael Lowry's technical group.

The Government wants to create a new group of TDs, who have said they will support the Government in all votes - but do not actually want to be part of the Government.

Instead, they want to have speaking slots and be able to question the Taoiseach twice a week. 

Fine Gael leader Simon Harris and Fiana Fáil leader Micheál Martin in the Dáil chamber. Picture by: RollingNews.ie via Oireachtas Press Office

The opposition described it as ridiculous on a number of fronts; firstly, that these are clearly Government backing TDs. 

Secondly, they are diluting opposition time with friendly questions, which means less accountability for the Taoiseach.

Micheál Martin has been tetchy on the subject and claimed the opposition are trying to deny democratically elected TDs having any speaking time at all.

Verona Murphy is hoping things will come to a head today as Dáil committees cannot be formed until the row is sorted.

Privately opposition leaders are admitting the Government could force through this vote - and there is little they can do to stop them.

Main image: Verona Murphy. Picture by: OireachtasTV