Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It remains to be seen who ultimately applies for the job and comes through the process. In arriving at the figure I considered other senior roles across the public service. I touched on a number of those already. As the Deputy knows, bespoke arrangements were put in place for the Garda Commissioner and the head of the HSE. There is a very high salary for the Governor of the Central Bank.

The view I arrived at, in consultation with my colleagues, was that this level of salary, albeit high, is commensurate with the level of responsibilities required for the post. Therefore, I believe it was the right decision and it is to be hoped it will attract candidates of the very highest calibre who will make a real difference.