Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Whatever about the arguments any voice might have put regarding the closing seven words of the subsection that the Minister proposes to delete, I come back to the obligation to consult in section 8(1)(a), (b) and (c), where relevant, and to ensure due consideration is given. That is critically important when planning and reviewing the provision of services which is what the agency will do, certainly in its opening period. Navel gazing is not acceptable. It should, of course, consult. If one wishes to review services, one must be involved in external engagement because nobody will do it better than those who are looking from an independent position. Those in the middle of the forest will not see the trees. Consultation is critical in arriving at the best results and the best possible approaches for planning and reviewing the provision of services. Clearly, we are of two minds in this regard. I believe the amendment would strengthen public confidence in the agency's role. Certainly, if we were to change it to "shall consult", it would give me confidence that the agency would be getting off to the right start, the start I expect of it.