Attempt to move by-election writ defeated on casting vote of Ceann Comhairle

A Sinn Fein motion seeking to have the writ moved for the Donegal South West by-election was defeated on May 5th 2010 on the casting vote of Ceann Comhairle Seamus Kirk. The vote was 76 for and 76 against, and as is traditional, the chair went with the government.

The debate was opened by Sinn Fein Deputy Caomhain O’Caolain, followed by Fine Gael Deputy Dinny Mc Ginley, who said that Donegal South West is seriously underrepresented at the moment, doubly so because Tanaiste Mary Coughlan has to spend so much time on national duties.

However, confirming that the government would be blocking the move, Minister of State John Curran said the governments focus at present is on taking steps to address the economic crisis. He said the government has no wish to distract from that work, and argued that the county is being well represented.

Needless to say all Green TD's and Ministers voted with the Government.

Dan Boyle has tweeted that all three pending by-elections will be held at the same time as the Dublin Mayoral election. We'll see what happens ...