The Dáil has voted to rise for a 12-week summer recess at the end of this evening's business.
TDs will reconvene on September 29th.
The motion to rise was passed by six votes.
The Dáil usually returns in mid-September.
Opposition TDs criticised the guillotining of legislation in advance of the long Dáil break. Labour leader Eamon Gilmore challenged Mr Cowen to hold the three byelections due, given that the Dáil would be closed until late September.
READ MORE
TDs are expected to pass the Dog Breeding Establishments Bill this afternoon.
