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

I hope that we will reflect on that, perhaps with the assistance of Deputy Michael McGrath, on Report Stage. I am deeply unhappy that these entities have total disregard for the Oireachtas in spite of the changes that might arise from the Bill. We make the laws. If the companies refuse to be accountable to the committee, I firmly believe regulation should make them far more formally accountable. I ask the Minister of State to consider that. I also ask Deputy Michael McGrath to consider it in the context of the Bill. I do not see why the companies should get away with it. The agents and vulture funds inflict terrible pain and suffering on families all over the country but do what they like. The purpose of the Bill and similar Bills is to provide an appropriate level of consumer protection, which is necessary because these companies will not submit to accountability and transparency before the committee. I understand the point made by Deputy McGrath that this is getting into the nitty-gritty of regulation but it is necessary in order to protect the consumer. I ask the Minister of State to consider what has happened in this country in recent years and the disregard shown by those companies for the Oireachtas. If they continue to fail to appear before the committee, the Minister must ensure a level of regulation sufficient to ensure they have respect for this country and the citizens we represent.