Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

I remind the Minister that I have the floor. He purports to define the word "opinion". All I am suggesting is that the word should be defined in the legislation. By using only the word "opinion" and not making it clear that it includes suspicion, one places the onus on the whistleblower to be sure of his or her ground before voicing a concern.

Let us consider the history of sexual abuse in our institutions. The Minister referred to someone making accusations that damage the good name of individuals. That is exactly what was said to children and other people who raised concerns and suspicions about these types of activities. It is a fundamental issue.