Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I know that my colleague, Deputy Naughten, raised many concerns when these amendments were introduced on Committee Stage. However, as I am satisfied that the Minister has now taken on board those concerns, I am very happy to support him. These changes are necessary and I believe the required safeguards now exist.

Several different terms are used in respect of the person carrying out sampling. For example the terms "authorised person" and "suitably qualified" are used. In other cases "medical practitioner" is mentioned. Is it absolutely clear that an authorised person is a medical practitioner? The section states that an authorised person involved in sampling should receive training as determined by the undertaking.

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