Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputies for their comments. I draw their attention to section 7, which is clear, in respect of the requirements for ministerial guidelines, about what is to be laid before the Houses. Regarding section 28, Deputy Ó Broin gave valuable examples of where the Oireachtas committee engaged on guidelines that had been issued. I remind him that it was not the result of a mandatory requirement, but it happened. That is why I expect the same value can be derived from the committee system regarding the guidelines in question that are to be issued. There is nothing preventing a committee from examining items that are laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas if it sees fit to do so and if the members believe they can add value to the process. I am very clear about the process whereby the Government governs. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan, as a Member of the Dáil, has ample opportunity to hold the Government to account regarding any regulations a Minister issues. He could see the value during the Covid period. He will have noted the role of committees regarding emergency guidelines that were introduced and the arrangements as we emerged from the pandemic. It is a very valuable role.