Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

The ethos of the Department has changed considerably due to the training and customer service initiatives in place, which have developed. Staff have also met members of the community and such interaction has led to good action being taken on the ground. As that methodology has stood its stead well within the Department, I would like it to continue. However, if glaring problems arise in regard to certain issues, we will have to re-evaluate the methodology. I would prefer to continue with the two initiatives in place, to monitor how they work and evaluate them. I have never had a problem with evaluating and reforming existing practices. Once a measure becomes a statutory obligation and a statutory animal, it is difficult to reform. Often we may have to change the direction in which we want to go. I am sure the Senators will also continue to act as an advisory body on these issues, as they have eloquently done in recent weeks.