Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I accept the Minister of State's statement that the board will try to be expeditious at all times and that it will be its intention to have cases settled within six months rather than nine, which is the period specified in the Bill. In view of the remarks of the distinguished former ombudsman, Senator Maurice Hayes, I withdraw my amendment. Time limits might not be helpful and there is a difference of only three months in the time limit I proposed and that specified in the Bill.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.