Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Just to clarify, the committee is very happy to have the team here. No matter how good a Minister is, and Deputy Bruton is quite good, he or she cannot know every detail. That is why it is important to have Departmental staff here. Furthermore, we like the officials to hear from us directly because they are dealing with these issues on a daily basis. As Chairperson, I believe it is important that the Minister and his team come before the committee to hear our questions and concerns. I am very conscious that the committee regularly writes to the Department seeking detailed information but it is also good to meet face to face and talk through some issues.