James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

These are drafting amendments. Section 16A(3) states: "The Directorate may perform its functions notwithstanding a vacancy in the membership of the Directorate." Amendment No. 7 proposes to delete this subsection because section 16K(10), subject to amendment No. 20 captures the objective of providing that the directorate may continue perform its functions in the event of a vacancy even in the office of the director general or in the office of an appointed director. Amendment No. 20 would delete ?act? and substitute ?perform its functions? in section 16K(10).

Amendments Nos. 6, 8 and 10 are consequential technical amendments. I ask Members to accept amendments Nos. 6 to 8, inclusive, 10 and 20. I also wish to indicate that, subject to legal advice, I may table an amendment to clarify the provisions and arrangements for the director general or an appointed director who is absent for an extended period.