Dr. Aideen Hartney:

Some of that ground will be covered in the review. We would have said before in this committee that the DPO landscape is evolving in Ireland and it is at a younger stage than it is in some other states.

On providing a mechanism for identifying DPOs and being able to direct Departments towards them, that is a practical suggestion. We have some guidance ourselves in our Participation Matters guidelines as to how public bodies could effectively consult and engage.

It is worth stating that while the convention gives clear space to and recognition of DPOs in consultation and monitoring, it does not preclude other stakeholders being involved. We feel that all parties have valuable perspectives to bring. Our guidance is that DPOs should be consulted with as a priority and, where feasible and practical, their input should be taken on board and addressed. If it is not feasible, they should be given reasons and an explanation as to why not. Definitely, family members, service providers and individuals who do not wish to be part of the DPO all have valuable perspectives.

It is about creating space and mechanisms for their voices to be heard.