The clock is ticking for TDs to declare their candidacy for the role of Ceann Chomhairle, with nominations closing at 6pm this evening.

Traditionally it has been the Taoiseach's responsibility to appoint a Dáil Chair, but for the first time ever the job will be filled through a secret ballot.

The vote is due to take place tomorrow and the Independent TD for Dublin Central, Maureen O’Sullivan, appears to be the favourite.

If successful, she would become the first female Ceann Chomhairle.

There are five declared candidates so far: Independent Maureen O’Sullivan, Fine Gael's Andrew Doyle and Bernard Durkan, Fianna Fáil’s Seán Ó Fearghaíl and Sinn Féin’s Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin.

Oireachtas guidance

The Oireachtas.ie website explains the new process for electing a Ceann Comhairle, after changes were made in January of this year.

Under the changes, the Ceann Comhairle will be selected by secret ballot and the person selected will then be formally elected by an open vote in the Dáil.

On Thursday March 10, 2016, the Clerk of Dáil Éireann will enter the House and read the Proclamation, received from President Higgins, convening the 32nd Dáil. The Clerk will then read the report on the issuing of writs and the names of the Members elected for each constituency.

The next item of business is the election of Ceann Comhairle.

The Clerk of the Dáil acts as Chairman until a Ceann Comhairle is elected.

No other business may be conducted until a Ceann Comhairle is elected.

Under Standing Orders, candidates must sign a declaration that they are willing to stand for election as Ceann Comhairle.

Their nomination must be supported by the signatures of no fewer than seven other Members.

A Member may add his or her supporting signature to only one nomination form.

Candidates may, in addition to putting themselves forward for election, add their supporting signature to one other nomination.