(1) An individual, public sector body or other body may be represented at a special inquiry by a legal practitioner or other agent.

(2) A special inquirer shall act independently in relation to the performance of his or her functions.

(3) A special inquirer shall act on any matter in issue at the special inquiry concerned according to equity, good conscience and the substantial merits of the case without regard to technicalities or legal forms, and is not bound by the rules of evidence, but may be informed on any such matter in such manner as the special inquirer considers appropriate.

(4) A special inquirer may, in respect of a matter not dealt with by this Act, give directions concerning the procedure to be followed at or in connection with the special inquiry concerned, and a person participating in that special inquiry shall comply with any such direction.

(5) A special inquirer does not have power to make an award of costs.