Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Some 35 bodies, as well as local authorities and certain voluntary hospitals, come within the remit of the Ombudsman. In increasing the number by 140, we must have procedures in place in each case and the bodies in question must be given some indication of how they should deal with complaints, interact with the Ombudsman and so forth. It may be of interest to Senators to note that, unusually in the preparation of this legislation, the Department has worked very closely with the Ombudsman to the extent that the Ombudsman has kindly seconded to my office a member of her staff who is working closely with us in the drafting of the Bill. I want the legislation to be practical rather than aspirational. We will ensure it works, while also upholding the principles that are important to the House and the Government.