Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

The principal reason for taking this approach is to ensure continuity. One must also consider the knowledge the appointee possesses. It is not easy, and may not be easy in future, to recruit someone to a short-term contract. We may have to offer a substantive contract to attract the necessary person with the requisite qualifications and standing to do the job. We have opted for an interim position, which is a reasonable and balanced decision. Of the three commissioners to be appointed, the current chief railway inspecting officer will assume one position and the two other posts will be filled through a fully open competition. The third position will be the subject of open competition at a later date. It is clear that the maximum period the person I appoint can serve is seven years, after which the position will be open to public competition.

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