16. (1) The Ombudsman may, with the approval of the Minister and with the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, from time to time engage such consultants or advisers as he or she considers necessary for the performance of his or her functions.

(2) Any fees due to a consultant or adviser engaged under this section shall, having regard to guidelines issued from time to time by the Minister or the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, be paid out of funds at the Ombudsman’s disposal.

(3) The Ombudsman, subject to compliance with any Government guidelines on public procurement, the European Union (Award of Public Authority Contracts) Regulations 2016 (S.I. No. 284 of 2016) and the Code of Conduct for State Bodies, may supplement the staff of the Office by entering into contracts for services to assist the Ombudsman as required.