Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I thank the Deputy. I do not propose to support this amendment on the basis that I do not believe it is necessary. The section already provides for the general function of the new authority to carry out inspections. Sections 142, 148 and 149 provide further detail in terms of the carrying out of such inspections, either by the authority of its own volition or at the request of the Minister and also cover the submission of recommendations as proposed in the Deputy's amendment. In addition, section 142(1) provides for these inspections as long as they are in the furtherance of the authority's objective, which is to oversee and assess performance by An Garda Síochána of its function relating to policing services under the section. In light of the fact that the proposed amendment is covered by existing provisions setting out the detail of the functions of the authority and its role in carrying out inspections, I regret that I cannot support this amendment.