Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I listened very carefully to the Minister and while I understand his concerns, he did not address the kernel of the problem. He took as an example the civil servant, garda or member of the Defence Forces. This is precisely my point. Members of these groups should not criticise the Government, nor question the merits of policy, as they are servants of the Government, in contrast to members of an independent body.

The Bill establishes an authority and gives it independence in implementing policy. Senator Mansergh pointed out that the chairman of the authority could have been appointed by a previous Administration. However, according to the legislation, the chairman has every right to question the merits of policy; it is the chief executive who may not do so.