Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

This is another example of how the Minister is overcomplicating a relatively simple function. By creating such a layered structure through committees, it will become a costly overbureaucratic monster.

There are some concerning elements around committees throughout the Bill. Section 55(4) states:

In the preparation of the statements referred to in subsection (1), the procedures committee shall avail itself of the advice and expertise of any consultants or advisers appointed under section 14(7) by the commission to assist it in the performance of its functions.

These committees will have discretion to appoint outside advisers and consultants. At what cost? This is an excessive bureacraticastion provision.

Section 14(7) states:

The Commission may as it considers necessary to assist it in the performance of its functions or the functions of any of its committees—(a) enter into contracts or arrangements with any person, and

(b) with the consent of the Minister, appoint consultants or advisers.

We have recent history with consultants and advisers in Irish Water. Before we authorise a quango, it is important we put proper limits and thresholds around the discretion to enter contracts with outside consultants and bodies.

This is a simple function which will appoint a limited number of judges. The Minister is creating a massively complicated layered structure which will have the discretion to appoint outside advisers and bodies. At what cost? The Minister really needs to examine what is being created and its potential cost, relative to the function it is meant to be performing. What does the Minister project will be the cost of the advisers and consultants in the performance of the committees' functions?

Why is that discretion being incorporated in the Bill?