Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

We will have to agree to differ on this point because I do not think it would be practical for all queries and requests to be channelled through the Clerks of the Houses of the Oireachtas. I can see the Senator's point that, for example, a withholding of resources would stymie the independence of the commission. That matter could be dealt with more appropriately by the commission making a report to say it did not have the necessary resources. I do not think, however, that the device the Senator is suggesting would work because it would be neither practical nor beneficial. The best guarantee of a commission's independence is that provided for in the clear language of section 9, as it stands.