An independent TD become the first female Leas-Cheann Comhairle after a shock vote in the Dail.
Galway TD Catherine Connolly won the position in a surprise result, beating the agreed candidate in a secret ballot.
Fine Gael’s Fergus O’Dowd was the other candidate in the vote and was expected to win with the support of all three government party TDs.
While Deputy Connolly makes history by becoming the first woman to hold the position of Deputy-Chairwoman of the Dail in its 101 year history, her election is a huge embarrassment for the Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and Green coalition.
It is believed the Government had 84 available votes but Mr O’Dowd only managed to secure 74 while Ms Connolly received 77.
Such was the shock there were gasps in the National Convention Centre when the result was announced.
Although it is not known who defected it is believed that up to 10 Fianna Fail TDs voted against Mr O’Dowd and it is possible some Fine Gael deputies also did.
It is believed there is now a probe to find out which TDs voted against the agreed candidate.
Catherine Connolly is a member of the powerful Oireachtas Public Accounts Committee (PAC).
She will take over in the running of the Dail in the absence of Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghail.
The Leas-Cheann Comhairle receives an additional salary allowance of €38,787 on top of a TD’s salary.
