Government Chief Whip, Mary Butler has accused members of Independent Ireland of misogynistic behaviour during last night’s confidence vote in the Dáil.

The Government Chief Whip made the comments following a heated debate, where she said female ministers were repeatedly shouted down while addressing the chamber.

Female ministers ‘spoken over’

Minister Butler said the behaviour was particularly noticeable when women rose to speak, claiming interruptions were directed disproportionately at female members of Government.

She said several colleagues, including senior ministers, were subjected to similar treatment during the debate.

According to Minister Butler, much of the commentary was not picked up on official microphones, but was clearly audible within the chamber.

‘Very concerning’ behaviour

Describing the incidents, Minister Butler said some of the remarks were “very concerning” and went beyond normal parliamentary exchanges.

She said the situation escalated during discussions around fuel protests and the Government’s response, with tensions running high throughout the session.

The Waterford TD also claimed that members of Independent Ireland became “incensed at times” during contributions from Government ministers.

Heated Dáil debate

The confidence vote followed a turbulent week politically, with ongoing fallout from nationwide fuel protests and divisions between Government and opposition parties.

Minister Butler said while robust debate is expected in the Dáil, the conduct witnessed during the session crossed a line.

She added that the focus should remain on respectful engagement, particularly when addressing serious national issues.

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