Rowdy scenes erupted while the Irish PM attempted to explain a new government proposal for speaking rights.

Ms McDonald ruled herself out of running for president. The election has to be held before November 11.

The Dáil had been suspended on Wednesday following chaotic scenes in the chamber.

The election of a taoiseach has been suspended until Thursday morning after a day of bitter rows in the Dáil.

The Dáil is meeting for the fist time since the election.

Simon Harris and Micheál Martin met on Monday which they described as "positive" and "constructive".

Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are due to meet this week to negotiate forming the next government of Ireland.

The party has won 48 seats, with Sinn Féin second on 39 and Fine Gael third on 38.