DONEGAL TD Pat the Cope Gallagher failed to land a top job in the Dáil today.
The role of Leas-Cheann Comhairle, or deputy chairperson of the Dáil which has the same pay and perks as a junior minister, will be decided later after TDs failed to agree who should get the job.
The position comes with an extra €34,000 per year – on top of the TDs’ €87,000 annual salary, and the right to hire two civilian drivers to drive the new appointees’ own cars.
Fianna Fáil’s Pat The Cope Gallagher got 52 votes but 83 TDs voted against him. Sinn Féin’s nominee, Seán Crowe, received 33 votes but 106 TDs voted against him.
Independent TD Mattie McGrath scored 20 votes with 117 voting against him. Fine Gael’s Bernard Durkan got 49 votes – with 89 against.
Dáil Ceann Comhairle Sean Ó Fearghaíl said the various political parties and groups would have to gather and discuss the situation again.
