I wish to raise a point of order in respect of the publication of the heads of a Bill about which inquiries were made on the Order of Business. I understand the heads were distributed to members of the press before they were given to Opposition spokespersons. Will the Taoiseach clarify the position in respect of the human rights Bill which arises on foot of the British-Irish Agreement? I understand the heads were circulated to selected members of the press before they were given to Opposition Members. That is bad practice.
Ceisteanna–Questions.
Does the Taoiseach wish to make a brief comment?
I have no knowledge of this matter. I would have thought the heads would be circulated in the normal way. When I leave the House, I will check the current position. As I stated this morning, the heads should be first distributed to Members.
They have only now been faxed to the Labour Party's press office following numerous telephone calls. I understand Fine Gael has not yet received them.
The normal procedures should have applied and I will check the position when I leave the House.
We proceed with questions because our business is subject to strict time limits.