The Dáil's Ceann Comhairle has withdrawn his claims that opposition TDs are "out to get him".

A contrite Seán Barrett told the Dail that he made the comments "in the heat of the moment" and does not stand by them.

The leaders of Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein have accepted the withdrawal of the contentious comments, with both Michael Martin and Gerry Adams saying they appreciated the sincerity and genuine nature of Barrett’s withdrawal.

Deputy Barrett is also to ask the Dail's procedural committee to consider changing the rules around circumstances where the Dáil wants to debate a matter that is currently before the courts.