Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 202:

In page 102, line 40, after “practicable” to insert “and not less than 8 months”.

The amendment adds a caveat to the provision that, as soon as practicable after the completion of an investigation, the authorised officer would prepare a draft report of the investigation. At the moment, the Bill refers to it being done as soon as practicable. I am suggesting that it be done within eight months. This is to ensure that investigations are expedient rather than drawn out or excessively lengthy. I put in "not less than eight months" but I just want to ensure we are not waiting indefinitely for reports.

Amendment No. 203 is important. The Minister will recall our earlier discussion in respect of fairness, efficiency and effectiveness. The amendment provides that as well as having regard to the need for fairness and efficiency, the commission would have regard to necessity and proportionality. I know that necessity and proportionality are mentioned elsewhere in the legislation but this amendment tries to ensure it is cemented in this space in terms of these actions of an authorised officer.