The Dáil was suspended on Wednesday during chaotic scenes in the chamber. Politicians had assembled to nominate Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin as the new taoiseach and allow

Micheál Martin, who was poised to be elected as Ireland's new Taoiseach today, slammed the chaotic Dáil proceedings as a "subversion of the Irish Constitution."

The Dáil has approved the proposal to nominate Micheál Martin as Taoiseach for appointment by President Higgins later today. There were 95 votes in favour of the Fianna Fáil leader, with 76 against. The nomination means Mr Martin will travel to Áras an Uachtaráin to receive his Seal of Office from President Higgins.

The election of taoiseach (Irish prime minister) has been delayed after the Dáil (lower house of Irish parliament) was suspended amid chaotic scenes in the chamber. Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin said the delay has been "premeditated, coordinated and a choreographed" position by the opposition and in particular Sinn Féin.

Government leaders have accused the Opposition of engaging in a "subversion of the Constitution" by not electing a taoiseach, while Opposition politicians have said the Government is engaging in a "farce" by allowing TDs who support the Government to speak on Opposition time and resources.

A row broke out in the dáil, forcing the suspension of proceedings as the Irish parliament returned to nominate a new taoiseach.