Parliamentary Turmoil: Call for Irish Speaker's Resignation

Verona Murphy, speaker of Ireland's lower house, faces calls to resign over a speaking rights controversy. Opposition claims her actions have eroded confidence in her impartiality. Murphy's ascent was backed by the ruling coalition, and the issue spotlights government-supporting independent Michael Lowry's controversial past.

The Irish political landscape has experienced upheaval as opposition parties urge the speaker of the lower house, Verona Murphy, to resign just months into her tenure. This demand arises from a contentious debate over speaking rights, which has disrupted parliamentary functions.

The government proposed retaining extended speaking rights for independents allied with the ruling coalition, a move the opposition vehemently opposes. The controversy lingers, delaying prime ministerial appointments and legislative processes.

Mary Lou McDonald, leader of Sinn Fein, criticized Murphy's impartiality, advocating her resignation. This speaking rights row keeps attention on Michael Lowry, a government-aligned independent with a controversial history, further fueling the political strife.

(With inputs from agencies.)