Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

There has never been a more apt moment to call for a mechanism involving appropriate scrutiny. It is as clear as day how important it is that there be scrutiny and value in that scrutiny offered by all Members. I strongly support these amendments. The flaws in this Bill would have been identified and dealt with if we had proper Committee and Report Stages. If there are mistakes in the regulations made by the Minister, we should not see them acted out against persons but rather ensure they can be scrutinised. I support these amendments and ask the Minister to bring his regulations for scrutiny to the House.

The other element of scrutiny is, of course, a review. Let us please not be asked to renew these regulations or legislation without a review of how they have operated or how the flaws we have heard about could be addressed. It is another crucial element because there are very simple elements of renewal set out here that are of concern.