Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In respect to Deputy Wallace's amendment No. 67, my concern is that the terms "civil society", "trade union activity" and "academia" may lack a certain degree of specification. I do not see any direct relationship between the three terms and I foresee problems in the selection process in this regard. I also suggest that the concepts of civil society and dispute resolution, which would, I presume, include trade dispute resolution, are already reflected in the other expertise and experience headings we have included in the legislation in any event.

As far as amendment No. 68 is concerned, the effectiveness of the new commission and the manner in which it will get its work done is absolutely critical to the success of the body. I stress again the necessity to have good experience. I do not see any valid reason for deleting the reference that would be imported by amendment No. 68 and I will not accept the amendment.