OTTAWA - It'll be a busy week ahead for politicians and journalists alike in the nation's capital as this Parliament sprints toward the finish line.

Members of Parliament return to Ottawa as the House of Commons resumes sitting following a two-week break.

While they were away, the trial of suspended senator Mike Duffy rolled on.

The court heard how Duffy's former intern, a makeup artist and a personal trainer all received cheques from one of two companies owned by a friend and former colleague of Duffy's for services they provided to the senator.

But another big political event this week may bump Duffy from the headlines for a day or two.

Finance Minister Joe Oliver releases his long-awaited federal budget on Tuesday.