Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 1 to amendment No. 124:

In subsection (2)(a), after "carry out," to insert "of its own volition or".

Earlier we discussed the difference between the ombudsman commission and the inspectorate. We believe the inspectorate should have the power to act without first receiving a complaint. When we previously discussed the issue it was said the ombudsman commission could not do it. This amendment suggests the Inspectorate should have the power to act without first receiving a complaint.

We are also proposing, in subsection (2), to delete "or with the consent". The inspectorate should not require the consent of the Minister when it decides to take action. It should be an independent body, available to but not a servant of the Minister. With regard subsection (3), the inspectorate should be entitled to make recommendations relating to any matter. This section, as proposed, is severely limited.