David Norris (Independent)

On a point of order, it is important that the matter be clarified. Apparently, a ruling has been given which may be misguided and could create a precedent that would be dangerous for this House. On the point I raised - I do not intend to insult or denigrate Senator Callely in any way - there is a technical matter. First, the issue into which he wandered, having appropriately raised the question of Seanad reform, was matters relating to his own court case, which is not finalised and on which, as was pointed out yesterday, there is conflict of interest which needs to be declared, and he was not raising a general interest. It would be important that the Cathaoirleach clarify that matter so that an unfortunate precedent is not created for this House. I make this point as a serious point of order and without malice.