An attempt to debate the controversy over payments to politicians by businesses failed in the Seanad yesterday.
Proposing the debate, Mr Brendan Ryan (Ind) said: "In light of recent revelations, I believe it is time the Oireachtas gave itself the power to oblige people to come before its committees."
He moved an amendment to the order of business to bring forward a motion on the Committees of the Houses of the Oireachtas (Compellability, Privileges and Immunities of Witnesses) Act, 1997, which has yet to come into operation.
The amendment, seconded by Dr Mary Henry (Ind), was defeated by 25 votes to 16.