TDs have agreed to change the rules on speaking rights in the Dáil, giving more members the chance to speak.

New rules means groups need only five members - instead of the original seven - in order to qualify for speaking time.

It means the Anti-Austerity Alliance-People Before Profit now automatically qualifies for speaking time in the chamber.

Other smaller parties and groups of independents are now expected to join forces to get speaking time of their own.