Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

I appreciate the Minister has proposed to change the numbers of members to be appointed, but he is not changing the stipulations on their origin. I do not doubt the integrity of the Minister or his Department in deciding what the numbers will be, and I appreciate the import of what the Minister of State said is that consumer interests are being addressed, but this is not stated explicitly in the legislation. It is too late to make an amendment to that effect but I wish to ensure the consumer is represented.

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