Soc Dems criticises Independent Ireland for “shouting over” female TDs

The Social Democrats have submitted a formal complaint to the Ceann Comhairle, saying that female TDs were being “shouted over” by Independent Ireland TDs in the Dáil.

On Tuesday, during a no-confidence vote on the government, Independent Ireland TDs were accused of not letting female TDs speak.

Cummins, Soc Dems TD for Dublin South Central, said in the complaint, “I was troubled by the repeated instances of deputies shouting over one another, which created a disorderly and unproductive atmosphere.”

“Of greatest concern was the pattern of interruptions directed at women TDs, which undermines both respectful discourse and the principle of equal participation in parliamentary debate,” her complaint read.

Cummins said she was “especially disappointed by the behaviour exhibited by members of Independent Ireland, whose actions contributed significantly to the disruption. They repeatedly shouted over women TDs from the government.”

Cummins noted, “this type of behaviour would not be tolerated in other workplaces and should absolutely not be tolerated in Dáil Éireann.”

She said the behaviour of Independent Ireland “detracts from the seriousness of the issues being discussed.”

In her submission, Cummins wrote “the Dáil should represent the highest standards of respectful debate, where all elected representatives are afforded the opportunity to speak and be heard without intimidation or interruption. When these standards are not upheld, it risks eroding the health of our democracy.”

“I respectfully urge you to take appropriate measures to reinforce standards of conduct within the chamber and to ensure that all Deputies, regardless of gender or political affiliation, are treated with the respect they deserve.”

Since forming in late 2023, Independent Ireland has amassed 4 TDs, an MEP and 23 councillors.

Of Independent Ireland’s elected representatives, just one of them is a woman, with Linda De Courcy representing the party on South Dublin County Council.

Minister for Defence Helen McEntee told the Irish Independent that female TDs were being “barked down” in the Dail, and that the behaviour of Independent Ireland TDs was “misogynistic.”