Michael McDowell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Yes, this is a divergence of opinion. It seems that section 25(1) is mandatory.Senator Norris is misreading the entire section if he makes the argument that subsection (4) gives discretion to the Minister and the commission to publish a report. Subsection (1) makes it quite clear that the commission shall, not later than three months after the end of each year, submit a report to the Minister on its activities and the Minister shall, as soon as may be, cause copies to be laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas. There is a positive duty there.