Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Just before I go back to the Minister, it is absolutely essential that the in-person option is retained. I have done a good few appeals with different people and I would much rather look an appeals officer in the eye than engage remotely. If someone was doing it remotely, he or she would not fancy his or her chances of winning the appeal.

The in-person option is essential. Obviously if someone wants to do it remotely, that option should be available but the in-person option must be retained because there is nothing like face-to-face contact when explaining a situation.