James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

The Minister of State has rejected what I have said in relation to the independence of the medical assessment. Amendments Nos. 84 and 85 again refer to an independent third party appointed by HIQA, although not necessarily of HIQA. I believe these are safeguards towards the independence of the process. I cannot accept they are a waste of resources, and if ensuring independence of the process, fairness, transparency and accountability - three principles sorely lacking in this and previous Bills, which are currently at the root of what this country is gripped by - that would not be a waste but a very wise use of resources which might save us all much grief in years to come.

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