Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

We do not believe the proposed amendment is necessary. Civil or criminal liability could not arise unless there was a breach of an enactment or rule of law and the section specifically states that the circumstances set out will not constitute such a breach. While I understand Deputy Tuffy's desire to ensure persons who comply with the law by reporting suspicions are fully protected, we do not believe this is necessary. We have considered the matter and believe that while the amendment might have been relevant to the wording of section 57(7) of the original 1994 Act, the way in which we have drafted section 112 obviates the necessity for making express reference in this respect.

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