David Norris (Independent)

I will finish my point. These measures were taken due to financial constraints. The Ombudsman states that the Department was well aware of the situation and lists a series of doubtful practices, including the use of regulation without recourse to the Oireachtas. The Minister of State will be aware of these criticisms and the doubtful practices, which are serious. The attitude of the Department and the unreasonable promulgation of discussions with the Ombudsman are a reproach to us all.