Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I understand the Minister's point and will not press the amendment.

On the tele-conferencing issue, the amendment states:

(7) For the avoidance of doubt, any meeting of the Agency which is held in whole or in part by means of tele-conferencing shall be a valid meeting.

As will be gathered from the inclusion of the phrase, "For the avoidance of doubt", I do not suggest and the Minister is correct to say that the amendment is necessary to validate meetings which are held using tele-conferencing. I have used it once or twice for meetings and I understand the best legal advice considers that it is not an issue.

I tabled the amendment because its inclusion gives a suitable digital flavour to the Bill. It shows that we expect the board to make full use of the technology available to it. I will not go to the stake on this, but it would be a nice touch to add it to the Bill. I understand the Minister's point and happily withdraw the amendment on the basis of having made the point.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.

Amendments Nos. 20 and 21 not moved.