Joe O'Reilly (Fine Gael)

I support Senator O'Toole's proposition. We are not seeking to thwart the process of independent regulation but there should be ministerial oversight in order that the ultimate responsibility and capacity to interfere should rest with the Minister through the Oireachtas. Senator O'Toole makes the point well that we are not seeking a position where the Minister would interfere daily with internal rules or regulation or the achievement of proper standards. The Minister should have the ultimate responsibility and prerogative to intervene when appropriate in the public interest. That is a reasonable proposition which is an important statement for the future. I ask the Minister to take that on board.