Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 20 Jun 2000

Vol. 521 No. 4

Written Answers. - Proposed Legislation.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

133 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Finance the steps being taken to implement the commitment given in An Action Programme for the Millennium to expand the remit of the Ombudsman to include legal, medical and other areas; the reason for the delay in publishing his legislative proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17527/00]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The scheme of a Bill to provide for a substantial extension of the remit of the Ombudsman is being drafted.

Other more pressing legislation has meant that the drafting has not been completed as early as would have been wished. I hope the Bill can be published before the end of the year.