Kathleen O'Meara (Labour)

The argument the Senator makes regarding delay does not stand up. We are in the House to ensure that legislation is the best it possibly can be. It is up to Members to make that judgment and we have always taken that role seriously.

We should consider each amendment on its merits, not in regard to the timeframe involved. In any case, this would not create an extraordinary delay. The Bill has been two years in gestation. While the House is happy to deal with it as expeditiously as possible and Members have always been committed to dealing with legislation as efficiently as possible, one must consider that the Bill has been in gestation for two years. Another few weeks would not make a significant difference.

What would make a difference, however, is the enhancement of the status of the office. As Senator Leyden stated, the amendment would enhance this and would underline the independence of the ombudsman for the Defence Forces. The independence of the ombudsman is an extremely important element of the office. It cannot be effective unless it is independent and seen to be so and unless those using the office and those to whom it applies have complete confidence in it. The amendment would enhance that and I support it.