Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I seek clarification from the Minister. In her contribution, she mentioned that the proposal made in the amendment might somehow tie the hands of the professionals when dealing with a particular child welfare case or issue. Obviously, there must be some latitude with regard to what interventions and supports are needed, because no two cases or remedies are the same. However, I understand this section of the legislation to be concerned with the overall performance of the agency rather than the nitty-gritty of what the professionals are doing on a day-to-day basis. My concern is that the agency will perform to a high standard and be transparent and accountable, and that the general principles will be consistent, more in the macro sense than in the micro sense the Minister seems to describe. Perhaps my understanding is wrong, but I believe we are talking about consistency on the macro level with regard to the performance of the agency. Therefore, I would be happy to see the word "consistency" inserted here and do not feel it would tie the hands of the professionals working with vulnerable families and children at the micro level. Will the Minister clarify this for me?