69Functions of Panel

69 Functions of Panel

(1) The functions of a Panel convened under section 68 are—

(a) to hear the matter referred to it by the Regulator under section 55(4)(b) or 63(b); and

(b) to determine whether or not the relevant WCES worker or carer is to be excluded from providing a WCES service or a specified class of WCES services.

(2) In carrying out these functions, a Panel may consider the following—

(a) any report or information submitted to the Panel under section 55, 65 or 66;

(b) any information obtained by the Panel during its consideration of the matter;

(c) any other information relevant to the matter that the Regulator submits to the Panel.

(3) Despite subsection (1), a Panel convened to hear a matter may at any time suspend, discontinue or determine not to commence the hearing of the matter if the Panel considers that—

(a) it is appropriate to do so having regard to the desirability of avoiding unnecessary duplication in the investigation of, and proceedings relating to, the conduct of a WCES worker or carer; and

(b) the suspension, discontinuation or determination would not prejudice the operation of the worker and carer exclusion scheme.