Traditionally, politicians have given interviews to the media about the latest political crisis on the 'plinth', a raised concrete platform area in front of the main entrance to the D�il which is totally exposed to the elements.

Ireland's other great tradition of constant rain has at times made such interviews impossible, but soggy TDs need worry no longer. Work has already commenced on the construction of a "new covered interview area as an alternative to the plinth in inclement weather", according to the Oireachtas Commission, which runs Leinster House.

TDs can also look forward to a new 'Siopa' where they can buy sweets and papers when they return in autumn.

An Oireachtas spokesman said the new D�il shop, which will be situated to the left of the Kildare Street gates to Leinster House, replaces the old siopa which has been demolished.

Elsewhere in Leinster House, far more ambitious plans to construct a 500-space underground car park under the Leinster Lawn fronting Merrion Square, have hit serious funding problems.

The OPW told the Oireachtas Commission last month that the business case for the underground car park, which was originally supposed to be funded under a public/private partnership scheme, is being analysed.