Dr. David Kenny:

That is precisely my point. I would recommend two approaches. The first is that the time for which regulations apply should be more limited. There has been improvement in that regard in recent regulations For example, the original set of face mask regulations, which apply in respect of public transport, run from July to October, but I think it would be preferable to have a shorter period before the regulations expire or need to be renewed. I would also suggest that there be an active requirement that any regulation should have to be laid before the House to be affirmed within a specified number of sitting days. The reality is that, as a result of the demands on legislative attention, calling regulations back to deal with their annulment often does not result in the holding of hearings or the regulations undergoing scrutiny. I appreciate that would be an extra demand on the Houses in a period when their time is limited, but it would be a great benefit in terms of oversight of the regulations that are being made.