Ivana Bacik (Independent)

I am grateful to the Minister of State for giving a full response. I am also glad the Minister has consulted further and impressed that a mini-conference with the Attorney General was held at lunchtime. I still contend, however, that opinion is not the same as suspicion because while an opinion may encompass suspicion, it amounts to more than a suspicion. The requirement to have more than a mere suspicion may have an off-putting effect on potential whistleblowers. The use of the words "opinion" and "suspicion" would not create confusion. The Bill contains examples of the use of several words with slightly different meanings - for example, the words "false", "misleading", "frivolous" and "vexatious" - to convey a more nuanced meaning. While I am pleased to learn that the Minister has consulted, as promised, and appreciate his decision to do so, I propose to press the amendment.