TDs on Dáil technical group 'furious' at Independent's move to be readmitted

Independent TD Mick Wallace has sought to be readmitted to the Dáil’s technical group.

Independent TD Mick Wallace has sought to be readmitted to the Dáil’s technical group.

The group cannot block the move because of the Dáil’s standing orders, despite the fact some members of the group last night said they were “furious” about the development.

Mr Wallace left the technical group voluntarily last June after details of his €2.1 million settlement with the Revenue Commissioners for under-payment of VAT emerged.

It is understood that Mr Wallace contacted Ceann Comhairle Seán Barrett this week about being readmitted.

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Technical group member Finian McGrath, a Dublin North Central TD, said he would have to consider his position in the group if Mr Wallace rejoined.

He was angered by comments Mr Wallace made in a weekend radio interview about speaking to a hitman as he sought to recover a debt. He earlier this week said he was concerned Mr Wallace’s conduct had damaged the integrity of the “Independent brand”.

Attempts to contact Mr Wallace were unsuccessful.

Steven Carroll

Steven Carroll

Steven Carroll is an Assistant News Editor with The Irish Times