Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I believe I went into some detail on this issue on Committee Stage. This amendment is unnecessary, as it would not be possible for the Minister to give a direction that is not consistent with the agency's functions. The agency can only act within the parameters set out in section 8. It also is inconceivable that the Minister would issue a direction that goes against the best interest principle. Therefore, I will not accept this amendment.