Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The selection panel noted that each of them was approached by the Department based on their relevant expertise. The Department was right and wise to approach them and ask them to sit on the panel. However, is it the case that those on the panel could not engage in the same process of appointment to the commission and that they could not approach people with the relevant expertise? If this was the case, is there a possibility of third parties nominating someone who they believe would be a relevant individual? Is that an option? I am mindful that there are many capable people who would not be inclined to put themselves forward.