Defenestration of Danny Healy-Rae as rebel TD is kicked off the agriculture com-mit-tee

The political maneuvering surrounding the Healy-Rae brothers has reached a new low with Danny Healy-Rae's removal from the agriculture committee. This action, described as a 'defenestration,' stems directly from the brothers' decision to vote against the government in a recent confidence motion, thereby reneging on a previously established 'nod-and-wink' deal.

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He’s not taking it well.

This deal, struck after the general election, involved the Healy-Raes' votes in return for ministerial positions, committee seats, and a steady stream of concessions for their constituency of Kerry. Michael Healy-Rae, who lost his ministerial position as a consequence, had publicly lauded his brother's negotiation skills when sealing the 'buy one, get one free' arrangement with Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris. Danny, while not taking a ministerial role, was also rewarded with a coveted seat on the Oireachtas agriculture committee.

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The deputy for Kerry seems to have forgotten that he had a nod-and-wink deal with the Government: his vote, and his brother’s vote, in return for a ministerial position, a committee seat and a drip-feed of Healy-Rae concessions for the good of the constituency.

However, the agreement unraveled under pressure from widespread fuel protests, which galvanized farmers and agricultural contractors. Faced with significant grassroots pressure, both brothers ultimately bailed out on their commitment. This decision surprised Minister for Children Norma Foley, who noted that the brothers had agreed to support the government for its entire term. While Michael had even released a video explaining his intention to vote confidence, Danny's actions sent different signals, with reports suggesting he was determined to pull the plug, thus sealing his brother's fate as a minister. Danny, however, denies influencing his brother's decision.

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Myself and Danny – it’s a team effort