Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will come back to the Deputy with the timeline and I am conscious that I did not answer a previous question on reports. There are reports that were signed off in the last few days. The delay has been due to the fact that the inspector has not been able to get into the prisons and inspect in the way that she would have previously. There are reports that will be published in the coming weeks.

In terms of the ombudsman, while I cannot comment on an individual case the office of the ombudsman is 100% independent in role and function, and in the work that it does. It goes without saying that the work it does will require engagement with members of An Garda Síochána because of its very nature. What we want to ensure, through the new legislation, is that we can strengthen, support and provide additional resources, where necessary, to the new ombudsman. I am not sure whether the name will change. Obviously, the focus is to make sure that the office continues with its independent nature, and that it is resourced and supported as much as possible. Again, that would probably require expansion and additional individuals to work within the commission. As always, we will go through the normal process and it will be an open process where anybody can apply, whether they are from this country or elsewhere.

Can I come back to the Deputy on the other question on the timeline for a complaints mechanism?