Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for accepting the main thrust of our amendment. I will withdraw amendment No. 30 in light of Government amendment No. 29. This is a most awkward issue on which we have to achieve a balance between the complainant's right to privacy because he or she might not want his or her medical history divulged in public, and the right of the person complained against to have due process.

This amendment arose from a comment made by Senator Henry on Second Stage so I am afraid I cannot take all the credit for it. A person making a complaint should not be put off by the threat of having a hearing in public with the consequent airing of private medical history. A balancing act is required which will respect that. I welcome the Government amendment which I hope will ensure people get fair play.