Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I confirm that the amendment mirrors the provision which applies to hearings by a panel of inquiry, whereby both a judge and a complainant are notified in writing of the date, time and place of the hearing in sufficient time to allow them to prepare for the hearing. Under section 66, the conduct committee may also conduct a hearing before making a determination on a complaint on which a report has been submitted by a panel of inquiry. The purpose of such a hearing would be to assist the committee in making a decision to ensure the observation of fair procedures. The amendment rectifies something of a lacuna in the text as it currently reads.