Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We do. I draw the Chairman's attention to the preliminary inquiry stage, specifically section 35(5) and (6). Subsection (5) states, "Following the completion of a preliminary inquiry ... the authorised official shall prepare a report of the inquiry, outlining his or her opinion in relation to the complaint concerned and the reasons for that opinion and shall furnish the report to the commissioner, the complainant (if any) and the respondent." It lays out, in subsection (6), the ability of the commissioner to dismiss the issue at preliminary inquiry stage. I will have a look at section 35 to see if there is any way in which we could amend this to deal with the concern that is being raised.

I will be standing by, and asking for the support of the committee and the Oireachtas on, ensuring the ability of the commissioner to investigate an inquiry and to appoint somebody to do it. I believe there are adequate checks and balances in place, but given the sensitivity of this matter, I will have a look at section 35 and revert back on Report Stage.