Prior to the summer recess I introduced a Bill to amend the powers and remit of the Committee of Public Accounts. In view of the fact that it has become a matter of greater controversy and that we are getting legal advice which is unwelcome and in conflict with other legal advice, I ask the Taoiseach to provide time for that Bill so that the members of the committee who are worried that our powers are being curtailed by political direction can rest assured this is not true.

Do I understand it correctly that the Deputy is referring to a Private Members' Bill?

Yes.

Has it been drawn through the lottery for discussion?

It is hoped that it will be discussed.

In the absence of its being drawn in the lottery - it is unlikely to be drawn - would the Taoiseach allocate time for it?

I will consider it. The reform we introduced whereby Members can bring forward Private Members' Bills such as this is a welcome one. I cannot predict the outcome of the lottery but I will give consideration to the Deputy's request.

I will withdraw it from the lottery.

The Deputy will agree that regardless of what party has been in Government, the Committee of Public Accounts has been a special committee of the Oireachtas for many years and has operated independently of any direction from the Government. We wish to see its independence and powers-----

Increased.

-----retained so it can do the job it is supposed to do.

We are getting conflicting legal advice, which is confusing our remit enormously. It would be helpful if the Taoiseach allocated time for it. I will withdraw it from the lottery if the Taoiseach will give it time. Would that be fair?

Life is a lottery. It is quite likely to be drawn. I have no doubt that the Ross Bill is something people would wish to have debated here.

It is a serious question.

I know.

If I withdraw it from the lottery, will the Taoiseach allocate time for it?

There is a queue, and even the Deputy cannot jump it.

It is a matter of government priority.

If the Committee of Public Accounts wishes to investigate matters, it is open to the committee to make a proposal to the Committee on Procedure and Privileges for changes to the orders of reference. That was done in the case of the report on deposit interest retention tax, DIRT. If an issue must be considered, a proposal can be made to that committee.

Could I sit in on that committee's deliberations?

If the Standing Orders or the terms of reference of a committee are restrictive and if in exceptional circumstances the committee wishes to seek a change, it can make an application to the Committee on Procedure and Privileges. I call Deputy Durkan.

Some chance.