Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

That is interesting and a reminder to us as parliamentary representatives and Oireachtas Members that we could, if we had a concern, write to an appropriate Minister and ask him if he would consider that prerogative. I accept it is ultimately a matter for the Minister. We could tell more people about that option, particularly in the parliamentary community. We have had some scary concerns in relation to local government in the past 12 months and this may be an option. I thank Mr. McCarthy for that response.

Mr. McCarthy went on to say NOAC has no powers. This is clearly an issue but it has not stopped it from doing good work. Would Mr. McCarthy like to see NOAC gain additional powers through statutory processes? Does he think that would be helpful? If so, in what area would he like to see powers, whether compellability, sanction or whatever?