Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

While I do not necessarily accept the latter point, I agree with some of the Deputy's other points. She is correct that the appointment raises an important issue. Two other commissioners will be appointed and both positions will be immediately open to public competition. I have no desire to be involved directly or indirectly in these kinds of appointments, nor am I involved in them in any other area. It was decided in discussions that the approach I have outlined was the best option in this case, that is, the person currently acting in the capacity of commissioner should be appointed and two other commissioner positions would be open to public competition. The purpose of the amendment is to implement that decision.

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