Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That is during the 24 hour period and it cannot go beyond 24 hours. In a practical reflection of the fact that not all circumstances are foreseeable, amendment No. 12 proposes that section 18 provide for an authorisation to be varied or extended.

Amendment No. 12 proposes that section 18 provide for an authorisation to be varied or extended. However, this is subject to all of the same conditions applicable to the making of an authorisation contained in sections 16 and 17. Section 23, which is provided for by amendment No. 17, provides for the Minister’s functions under this Part to be carried out by a nominated officer. The Minister may only nominate officers for this purpose of assistant secretary grade or higher level.

I commend these amendments to the House.

See this speech in context