Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

While some of what is proposed makes sense, I do not agree with some of it. Senator Quinn is proposing the deletion of the subsection that allows an inspector to remove any books, documents or records from a place of work or premises and detain them for such period as he or she reasonably considers to be necessary for the purpose of his or her functions under the Act. I think that is a proportionately stated right. It follows the provision which allows the inspector to take copies of documents. In other words, he or she cannot remove the books or documents. It is only in cases where an inspector has reasonable grounds for considering it necessary for the purposes of his or her act that he or she can remove books or documents. I believe that is a reasonable power to give to an inspector. I will come back to Senator Quinn on amendment No. 36, which provides that where records are taken a receipt be provided.

I understand it is perfectly permissible for the employer to request that he or she retain copies of the records before they are removed by the inspector. However, I will consider whether there should be a formalised record taken in those circumstances.