Fine Gael and Labour TDs who lost the party whip for voting against government policies have been granted speaking rights in the Dail.
The Ceann Comhairle, Sean Barrett, has told the TDs that time will be given to them to contribute in debates on government bills.
The change in the rules means that 15 TDs outside of the main parties or the technical group will still have a chance to discuss the government's agenda.
The news comes as TDs and Senators return to Leinster House for the start of the new term.
Our political correspondent Gavan Reilly reports.
