Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Given the unfortunate situation whereby the Commissioner is not physically present, it may be that he will be here at some point in the next few years and we can ask him the same question again when he enjoys full parliamentary privilege. However, I do not think that is what the Commissioner was referring to. In any event, does the Commissioner have concerns that this ability to provide information could lead him into very murky water in that there is a very thin line between providing information that could be relevant and engaging in political policing? Of course, the rule of law is a big issue at the moment. We, in Ireland, are very critical of Poland for breaches of the rule of law and we are very careful to safeguard the rule of law here. We like to lecture other states about political policing. Does the Commissioner think that more detail in the legislation on what should be brought to the Minster's attention might be beneficial ? Obviously, matters pertaining to the preservation of peace and public order, the protection of life and property and the protection of the security of the State should be brought to the Minister's attention. I am not saying the Commissioner did, or would do, so, but this omnibus thing would enable future commissioners to basically provide sensitive, private information about somebody that a member of the Government is in a political dispute with. It is more Zimbabwe than Phoenix Park, but we can never take anything for granted.