The purpose of the amendment is to attempt to provide for a more definite structure in terms of the period during which investigations take place. If they are allowed to proceed without greater clarity in terms of duration, they could become open ended. The Garda Síochána is under serious pressure to fulfil its responsibilities in this and other countries and many of us have called for greater resources to be allocated to it. If these investigations are ongoing for too long a period, they will impose a great strain on resources and involve a huge cost to the State. In view of this, the amendment seeks to provide that investigations should not exceed the duration provided for at their establishment but that where required, the duration may be extended if it is agreed by the competent authority in consultation with the Minister.