Louise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I understand that when the Medical Council of Ireland sits, it sits with the power of the High Court and I can see why it has to be a like for like arrangement. The Minister of State has heard the concerns that have been raised if there is to be an informal meeting, which would be helpful. I would suggest that we ask someone to come in who has been through that experience, either from the representative bodies or the legal profession, who might be able to speak to how it happens. It is a long and drawn-out process and I am not a legal expert but I have been through this process on more occasions than I would have liked. I am talking about practical, hands-on experience but I am not somebody who will take us through the legalities of it. The Minister of State can hear the concerns we have. It is daunting and the State brings a big team. I remember standing in the foyer of the court and my poor members were looking at me because the other side all came in a big bus and it seemed like there were millions of them. It is extremely expensive and it is really intimidating for the person taking the action, bearing in mind this person has already been through the wringer and been through the harsh process and then at the end they are facing into this. If we are to organise a meeting, which I would support because it would be useful, we should bring in someone who has a bit of practical experience who might be able to speak to us about that.