Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

I cannot accept the view taken by Senator Higgins. The amendment is reasonable. As Senator Mansergh said, if the commission in most cases approves of the legal support being given, I cannot see a situation arising where either House would disapprove. In regard to how it will work in practice, I do not see the time limit of a recess or whatever being a difficulty. Clearly, people can obtain legal advice during a recess. The issue is who will pay for the legal advice. I do not see that as being a strong case.

Amendment agreed to.

Government amendment No. 8:

In page 7, between lines 34 and 35, to insert the following new subsection:

"(4)(a) The functions of the Minister under section 4 of the Oireachtas (Miscellaneous Provisions) and Ministerial and Parliamentary Offices (Amendment) Act 1996, are transferred to the Commission on and from the establishment day.

(b) Section 4 of the Oireachtas (Miscellaneous Provisions) and Ministerial and Parliamentary Offices (Amendment) Act 1996 is amended by deleting the words 'Where an injury is claimed to have been sustained' where they appear in subsections (1) and (2) and substituting them with 'Subject to section 4(4)(a) of the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission Act 2003, where an injury is claimed to have been sustained'.".

Amendment agreed to.

Government amendment No. 9:

In page 7, subsection (7)(a), line 45, to delete "members or a Committee" and substitute "members of a Committee".