Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

This is a technical amendment. In view of the significant statutory role of the chief inspector of social services it is important there be no dispute over the validity of registration decisions or other decisions made in respect of designated centres that are made at a time when the chief inspector is absent for a period or the position is vacant. This amendment empowers the authority to appoint an inspector to perform the functions of the chief inspector on a temporary basis in such circumstances.