Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)

When the Minister talks about an independent regulator, is he referring to one that is totally independent of direction either from the Oireachtas or the Minister? Unless we change the law, it is independent of the Oireachtas and that is why I have very little faith in this so-called accountability to the Oireachtas. It is true to say, however, that this Bill is full of cases where the Minister's permission is needed and therefore this independence is not absolute. The idea that An Post or the regulator can do what they want is clearly constrained by the Bill. Presumably the Minister's officials have advised him this is all kosher. The simple question then arises as to when the Minister should have the right to intervene, because it is clearly stated in the sections every time the Minister's consent is needed. How far should the Minister retain control and over what?

All that Deputy Ferris suggested, and I support him, is that where the national interest is involved - not An Post's interests - the Minister should step in. That is what was proposed. To rubbish that means the Minister thinks ComReg's independence is more important than the national interest. The Minister has made his point and so be it. We have clearly heard where he stands on that issue. It is his decision and we will remember it.

The Minister said this does not affect post offices but of course it does, although it is not directly related to them. It is like saying that if the wall falls down it does not necessarily bring the window with it. If An Post loses the universal service in future, the post offices will follow.

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