Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

Section 22(5) sets out in detail the powers of authorised persons on entering premises or boarding a vehicle, including at section 22(5)(i) provision for powers to carry out repairs. The purpose of this amendment is to enable an authorised person also to carry out other such remedial works as may be considered necessary to make good any damage to the surrounding area which may in itself be contributing to further risk. Such powers could be necessary, for example, where an inspection disclosed an immediate risk to public health or the environment from the poor state of repair of drains or water pipes. Repair of a pipe or drain alone might not be sufficient to rectify the problem in the light of resultant damage to the surrounding area.