Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

As Senator Mansergh said, that is the case. The court can give permission in such cases to intervene.

Amendment agreed to.

Government amendment No. 5:

In page 6, subsection (2)(e)(ii), lines 22 and 23, to delete "arising from the performance by them of their functions" and substitute "arising solely from the performance by them of their parliamentary functions".

Amendment agreed to.

Government amendment No. 6:

In page 6, subsection (2)(e)(iii), lines 33 and 34, to delete "arising from the performance by them of their functions" and substitute "arising solely from the performance by them of their parliamentary functions".

Amendment agreed to.

Government amendment No. 7:

In page 6, lines 45 and 46 and in page 7, lines 1 to 5, to delete subparagraph (iv) and substitute the following new subparagraphs:

"(iv) in relation to any legal proceedings initiated against members of Dáil Éireann, or of a Committee appointed by Dáil Éireann, as regards matters arising solely from the performance by them of their parliamentary functions as such members, and where authorised by Dáil Éireann to do so on behalf of such members and in accordance with the terms of the authorisation, to conduct defence of such proceedings on behalf, or for the benefit of, such members,