Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

This matter needs clarity. Maybe a "'without prejudice to" clause could be added. I totally agree in respect of live, imminent or ongoing legal proceedings even where they are in a gap, for example, between a case and an appeal. However, historic matters, for example, should not end up being closed off. Later I will discuss amendments that deal with ethical issues that may arise during research and innovation. Because those same ethical conflicts may have led to court proceedings of some kind and we should not then see a situation where the body could not be taken to court. We should not have a situation, for example, where people feel they have to choose between seeking justice in a court and transparency in respect of the operation of a public body.

I am happy to debate this matter on Report Stage as it needs further thought.