Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The reply to many of the Deputy’s questions is actually what is laid down in the legislation. I am following the same procedure that was followed very successfully in 2006 by a previous Government. Then, a Circuit Court judge, the late Kevin Haugh, was appointed and, as is allowed under the Act, became a judge of the High Court. Everyone will agree he that did an excellent job as chair of GSOC.

Ms Justice Ellen Ring’s remuneration is that of a High Court judge. The legislation allows me to appoint her only for the remainder of Simon O’Brien’s term. Obviously, we will have a new recruitment process after that point. Clearly, at that point, the judge would be eligible to express her interest in the same way as anybody else. I am precluded from appointing her for a full five years under the Act. She can only serve the time that is left. She also gets leave of absence from the High Court.