Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)

Fees for board members have already been reduced. The Deputy is probably aware of the controversy whereby I have also issued a directive to the effect that no public servant appointed to a board may be paid a fee. The idea of one person, one fee and one payment should exist.

With regard to the amalgamation it seems the back office supports for the Office of the Ombudsman and the Office of the Ombudsman for Children will do no damage to the independence or robustness of the latter office. It will simply make it more efficient and streamline the services. It is similar to several other amalgamations and shared services arrangements and serves as a driver for change and reform. We should be open to change and not simply think that something must have its own edifice. Government Department should have shared human resources management, pensions arrangements and pay. We do not need to duplicate such things.

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