Verona Murphy becomes first female Ceann Comhairle of the 34th Dáil

Independent TD, Verona Murphy has made history by becoming the first woman elected as Ceann Comhairle

The Wexford representative secured the position after a three-round vote, marking a significant milestone in Irish parliamentary history.  

Her election paves the way for the formation of a new government, which is believed to include Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, and the Regional Independent Group.  

Ms. Murphy won with 87 votes on the third count, after the elimination of outgoing Ceann Comhairle, Seán Ó Fearghaíl.  

In the first count, she led with 76 votes but failed to pick up any transfers when Fianna Fáil’s John McGuinness, who received 21 votes, was eliminated in the second round. 

At that stage, Sinn Féin’s Aengus Ó Snodaigh had 54 votes, while Mr. Ó Fearghaíl trailed with 42, RTE reported.

It was the redistribution of Mr. Ó Fearghaíl’s 42 votes on the third count that finally secured Ms. Murphy's win. 

She gained 13 transfers, putting her over the required amount and cementing her historic win.  

Following her election, the Dáil is set to reconvene at 3:30pm to continue proceedings. 

Earlier in the day, Simon Harris formally resigned as Taoiseach during a meeting with President Michael D. Higgins. 

However, Mr. Harris will remain in the role for now, as the Dáil is not expected to elect a new Taoiseach today. 

He is scheduled to represent Ireland at a European Council meeting in Brussels this evening also. 

The current Cabinet will also remain in office until the formation of a new government. 

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