Michael McCarthy (Labour)

I support these amendments. Senator Quinn articulates his views very well. We have to be careful about those to who we give the power to search people's homes. It is a significant authority to invest in anybody and there are prescribed methods by which that should be done. This certainly reflects Senator Quinn's amendment which outlines the only way such a search should be allowed to be carried out.

There is a second issue in regard to the location of a premises and the home place. I know of a practice that is conducted for two hours, one evening per week. A bedroom in a bungalow has been converted for the purpose of holding that clinic. Therefore, to go into the home place where there is a family is unnecessary and extreme. I urge the Minister to look at the amendment with a view to accepting it on that basis. This is an important issue and goes beyond the power one entrusts in these people. The issue of privacy is important and dear to all of us.