Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I was not expecting to be next. I missed the introductions and opening statements and, therefore, some of my questions might have been dealt with. What I ask could probably be a rehash of what was said but it is important. With regard to accountability to the Oireachtas rather than to the Department of Justice, have any of the witnesses any first-hand examples of why that is important? I think it is important. If it was accountable to the Oireachtas could the budget still be provided by the Department? Would that make a difference to the operation of the system in the future? The financial independence of the inspectorate would be important. For example, if it was made independent and accountable to the Oireachtas, would that be enough without all the other issues being sorted out too? What is the minimum level that would be required?

Head 14 deals with the inspection of places of detention and direct provision is one area that is important. Hospitals and nursing homes are inspected by HIQA. Is there a need for duplication or would that be important? Will the witnesses elaborate on that and also on the need for direct provision to be included in that and how that could be classed? The definition of "places of detention" might not be appropriate for that.