Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senators for their contributions. I was keen to ensure the establishment of the Joint Committee on Public Service Oversight and Petitions. During the negotiations on the programme for Government, it was my view that the committee should have much greater powers than is currently the case and would, if one likes, act as a clearing house for formal Oireachtas inquiries. Unfortunately, the people hesitated in giving this power to the Oireachtas and we must accept their decision in that regard.

I commend the joint committee on undertaking a careful examination of what it could do effectively. A petitions committee of these Houses, analogous to the committee of petitions of the European Parliament, will give citizens a direct input into policymaking.

I fully appreciate the comments made by Senator Ó Clochartaigh on the role of the Ombudsman. In the previous Oireachtas, there was a public dispute about the action taken by the previous Administration on foot of the Ombudsman's report. We need to ensure there is a clear vehicle to deal with recommendations from the Ombudsman. The new Joint Committee on Public Service Oversight and Petitions will assume this role.

I understand the Ombudsman, Ms Emily O'Reilly, came before the committee last week and engaged in a good exchange with members. I look forward to the development of this role not only in respect of the Ombudsman but also the other ombudsmen, including the Ombudsman for Children. This legislation will also broaden the scope of the Ombudsman for Children legislation on foot of a request from the Ombudsman for Children and Minister for Children and Youth Affairs.

That is on foot of a request both from the Ombudsman for Children and from the Minister for children, but we will deal with those amendments when we get them. I thank the Senator for his support.