Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I have evaluated this amendment and as the Senator is aware, we made quite a number of changes concerning evidence and a person's entitlement to know of what he or she is accused. I have given the fitness to practise committee the flexibility to call upon the complainant to give direct evidence, where appropriate. The council will determine whether it is appropriate that this should be done. This is not a diktat but will take place when it would be appropriate to permit a person to give evidence. I do not envisage this in terms of someone giving evidence against himself or herself but as an opportunity for people. I want to have an open attitude under the fitness to practise provisions because it is a very onerous task. I would not like to have such an onerous task as either the medical or veterinary fitness to practise committees. I do not see the complainant as being under a microscope on this issue but the Bill provides an opportunity to put forward his or her case. It is appropriate to allow that possibility because the legislation permits the council, if it is appropriate, to determine that.

I appreciate from where Senator McCarthy is coming. People might feel some pressure because they are talking about themselves or they may feel they are giving evidence against themselves, although that is a nonsensical way of looking at the question. However, the measure is not prescriptive so it permits this flexibility.