John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

At the last meeting we discussed NAMA taking over some work from the IBRC. This will mean a significant workload for the committee. In this instance, we do not have the professional capacity to deal with it. The committee has asked the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform to consider this issue. All of the professionalism is on one side of the room when representatives of NAMA or other organisations attend the committee. The committee needs access - they are not permanent positions - to advice and opinion. Specific issues are raised when the committee hears from the representatives of the many bodies that attend it. However, there is not the ability in the Comptroller and Auditor General’s office to undertake the forensic examination required in some cases. Mr. McCarthy may comment on this. The committee has requested the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Brendan Howlin, to give it the support it needs to conduct its job fully and thoroughly.