The business of the Dáil has been suspended this lunchtime as a mark of respect to the victims of the Berkeley disaster.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has led speeches in memory of the victims, and read their names into the record of the house.

It's been announced that the junior minister responsible for the diaspora, Jimmy Deenihan, is to travel to San Francisco to head up the diplomatic supports for the victims.

The Ceann Comhairle of the Dáil, Sean Barrett, has suggested that TDs should hold a short ecumenical service in the chamber in honour of the survivors. 

From Leinster House, our political correspondent Gavan reilly reports.