Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have a supplementary question to that, concerning when they make a submission. The Chair asked if we could see the papers related to this engagement. The witnesses said they are fed into an overall paper which best captures what it is about. They can correct me if I am wrong. I like that but I also like to see under the bonnet and to see the documents that feed into that. It is a powerful group, which I do not say in a disrespectful way, and it fights its corner strongly and robustly. It is important we understand where it is coming from. There is tension between the elected members and city and county managers. That is not all bad because there is a bulwark there. I know the Department is engaging with people in a meaningful way and they will not engage fully if they feel everything they say is recorded. There is a balance. The witnesses do not have to justify that. I understand that. It is about having as much meaningful engagement from these sectors as possible so they are free and it is free-flowing. They have loads to say. It is also important how that is reflected. I do not want any group thinking it is special or to have whispers in the Custom House to the effect that "This is the story but don't say what I said". I would like a comprehensive summary of where they are coming from, though I am conscious the Department has to keep it open and give people space to feed in to the process. I would appreciate that.