David Norris (Independent)

If I may make a brief point without disturbing the Minister's train of thought, I am a little concerned on the basis that the Minister referred to a possible investigation, but there are no guidelines except for this debate and I doubt if the entire island of Ireland is listening in avidly to what we are saying here this afternoon. There are no guidelines for the investigating officer to indicate that a jobseeker, by rejecting a job that is unsuitable, is acting legitimately. Some people may interpret the rules strictly. For example, an officer may say that while they know the person is a brain surgeon, he was offered a job as a flower arranger and did not take it, so shame on him. There does not seem to be any universal protection in that case. That is the point I am concerned about. I know there may be an investigation. Perhaps the Minister could arrange for a circular to be issued in the meantime. Can she reassure the House that those carrying out the investigation will understand that it is legitimate to turn down a completely inappropriate job. For example, a person of the Muslim faith may be required to work in a sausage factory and the person would find that extremely unappealing.