Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 40:

In page 11, line 7, after "request." to insert "This subsection is without prejudice to the entitlement of the Commission to exercise its powers under this section in any such case of its own motion.".

This amendment makes it clear that such other powers to act in respect of this section do not impinge on the entitlement of IHREC to exercise its powers or move any case on its own motion.The Minister spoke about seeking to strengthen the powers of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission and the Workplace Relations Commission in terms of their engagement and intersection with this Bill. Senator Bacik seeks to ensure that the powers they are given here do not in any way impinge on such other actions they might take.

I will not press the amendment in the absence of Senator Bacik but I did not want to raise it on her behalf. She plans to return to this matter on Report Stage and address it further. I would appreciate any comments from the Minister in respect of amendment No. 40.