Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)

The safeguards referred to by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform include the appointment of a High Court judge. There is a precedent for this and I have confidence in such a process. However, while not part of the Mullingar accord, I support Deputy Costello's proposal that a report to Parliament will give more confidence in the safeguard system.

The section provides for a report to the Taoiseach. While not casting aspersions on the integrity of the present incumbent, given that Geraldine Kennedy and Bruce Arnold had concerns about the operation of phone taps, one may not have full confidence in such a process. My concerns for the safeguards would be allayed if the report were to the Oireachtas as opposed to the Taoiseach. The latter is a member of the Executive while Parliament is the last bastion of democracy. Will the Minister accept Deputy Costello's proposal?

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