The Dáil has adjourned until the morning amid rowdy scenes over proposed new drink-driving legislation.
There were angry exchanges between members of the Rural Independent Group and other TDs as the Road Traffic Amendment Bill continued to slowly make its way through the house.
The bill, which strengthens the penalties for first time drink-driving offences, will now most likely be before the Dáil again next week.
It is over a year since the legislation was first debated in the Oireachtas.
The heated exchanges occurred when the Rural Independent Group was accused of delaying the bill.
Several members of the group sought to speak on amendments, but Leas-Cheann Comhairle Pat the Cope Gallagher told them this was not permissible as they had already been discussed.
Earlier in the debate, Social Democrat TD Catherine Murphy accused Independent TD Mattie McGrath of filibustering.
A majority of TDs voted in favour of a call from Ms Murphy to use a "closure motion" to end the delays.
Mr McGrath asked Minister for Transport Shane Ross to withdraw comments he made about TDs opposed to the bill, referring to them as "road traffic terrorists"', which he said were "hurtful allegations".
The legislation will provide for the automatic disqualification of motorists who are caught driving with an alcohol level between 50mg and 80mg per 100ml of blood.
Up to now, these drivers could receive three penalty points on their licence and a €200 fine, but remain on the road.
Additional reporting Edel McAllister
