Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

I appreciate and understand the sentiments expressed by the Deputy but it is clearly established practice that the Minister is responsible and answerable in this House for policy. In terms of the commission and other matters, it is the relevant Oireachtas committee to which the commission is answerable. I have no mandate to change this procedure in terms of the way in which the Houses operate and the strengthened committee system in place. I do not have any proposals to unilaterally change it on this occasion.

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