Aodhán Ó Ríordáin (Dublin North Central, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The effect of this amendment is to remove the requirement for the consent of the Minister for Justice and Equality and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform where the authority is seeking to enter into contracts with persons or appoint consultants. The requirement for ministerial consent is a standard requirement in such circumstances and it is an important aspect of good governance. As the relevant arrangements that have been made in the Bill are in line with the established procedures for State bodies, the Minister is not in a position to accept the amendment. In the circumstances, I would ask the Senator to withdraw the amendment.