Gerry Horkan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Bill was introduced in good faith by Deputy Pearse Doherty in the Dáil and Senator Conway-Walsh and her team in this House. We are all working to achieve the best outcome for consumers. I speak on behalf of consumers and the people who put us here, as opposed to the Financial Services Ombudsman. If the ombudsman does not want a change in legislation, it is not a reason for me not to propose such a change. The Minister alluded to the fact that the Financial Services Ombudsman does not believe the amendment is a great idea but the ombudsman would believe that, would he not?

I acknowledge the Minister of State's bona fides and thank him for his comprehensive response. I do not agree, however, that the amendment could have unintended consequences as it refers to complainants and I do not believe many financial institutions will make complaints against their customers. While I will not press this worthy amendment today, I may invoke my right to reintroduce it on Report Stage because it could benefit some people.