Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)

The main problem with the large number of agencies is that Members cannot obtain a reply from the relevant line Minister when we raise an issue in the House. In other words, no one is accountable to the people or their representatives.

It is not feasible to abolish some State agencies. Bodies such as NERA are essential if we are to pursue those who do not comply with the law. While I accept there is duplication among certain agencies and it will be necessary to focus our attention on this issue, the main problem is the lack of accountability to the Oireachtas.

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