I wish to raise a question relating to legislation on the operation of the courts, given recent references to a Member of the House making direct contact with a member of the Judiciary. Regarding the court of appeal Bill, on its passage through the Houses, will recognition be given to-----

The Deputy cannot ask about amendments.

I should be allowed to finish my sentence. The distinction between the courts and the Houses of the Oireachtas should be clarified in the course of debate on the Bill. At the same time, recognition should be given to the right of a Member of the Oireachtas to bear witness in court.

We are dealing with promised legislation here. We are not dealing with the-----

I have experience of this so I want to know whether the court of appeal Bill is the appropriate legislation with which to address the issue.

When is this Bill due?

The court of appeal Bill is due before the Government next week and it is intended that it will be enacted this term if the time can be found. I do not wish to comment on a story about a colleague on the other side of the House without first knowing the facts.