Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I would agree with Deputy O'Callaghan's analysis. There is good balance in terms of those appointed by the Public Appointments Service and the nominating bodies. I would agree with the inclusion of a community representative. How we define that can obviously be looked at, but I agree with the inclusion of someone with such experience.

One could argue that an ex-offender would have the relevant experience. I wonder is there any legal barrier to an ex-offender serving on the parole board.