Mary Ann O'Brien (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Good.

I am not a legal person but neither is the Minister. In business to me the word “consult” is very soft. I am keen to have this legislation bring in new rules, transparency and accountability with the Turf Club making the rules while HRI doers all the other regulatory jobs. It is great that we are going to save money with one Department collecting all the money. Coming from my work background that amounts to what may be termed "lean manufacturing". The rules and regulatory side of racing are vital and it is important we keep them watertight. I might be wrong but the word “consult” seems soft to me. I prefer the word “inform”. If I were making the rules, I would feel stronger if I informed the board. However, if I had to consult with the board, it means it could change what I had done. It also affects the idea of retaining independence. That is the spirit in which I will be introducing an amendment on Committee Stage. In my line of work, to "consult" a little bit soft. The Minister knows what consultants are like too.