Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That point about the production of discs and licences is an interesting one. I recall how, when I was in Mayo a few years ago, I was asked to produce my tax disc because I had forgotten to put it in the car window. Of course, I do not live in Mayo, so when I went home, I checked and found my tax was up to date. If they had checked the system, they would have been able to prove it. I got notification that I had not produced my disc, which of course I had, and at the time during which the matter was being investigated, my tax disc was valid. I just did not have it in the car window. The point made by Deputy O'Brien is an interesting one.

I agree with Mr. Toland's earlier comment that the Policing Authority was the final piece in the jigsaw in respect of oversight. In respect of all organisations but most especially given that the Policing Authority is the youngest of the three oversight bodies, in observing the creation of the authority and its progress towards operating at full tilt - I am not sure whether it is operating as such yet but I do not believe it is - does Mr. Toland think there are any identifiable legislative weaknesses in the inspectorate's role or remit or weaknesses through custom and practice in dealing with any of the other agencies with which it would have a direct function?