Leinster House usher suspended over online posts

An usher has been suspended from his role in Leinster House amid an ongoing investigation into his online posts which allegedly included far-right and anti-immigrant material.

The decision was taken late last week after concerns were raised about the man posting these comments alongside a picture of his official Leinster House uniform.

The Houses of the Oireachtas Commission, which oversees the running of Leinster House, was informed of the decision before the weekend.

However, it was not given a detailed briefing of the reasons behind the decision.

It is understood the man was spoken to by officials in the past about his online posts.

An usher’s role in Leinster House includes escorting the Ceann Comhairle to the Dáil chamber and meeting foreign ambassadors visiting the house.

The ushers also check that the house is secure at night after the Dáil and Seanad business finishes for the day.

A spokesperson said this afternoon that the “Houses of the Oireachtas service does not discuss staff matters”.