Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

The Garda Síochána Act 2005 provides for the establishment of the Garda Síochána ombudsman commission to investigate complaints against members of the force. Section 65 of the Act provides that the commission is to consist of three members, all of whom are to be appointed by the President following nomination by the Government and the passage of a resolution of each House of the Oireachtas recommending their appointment. One of the persons to be appointed is to be the chairperson.

In reply to Deputy Jim O'Keeffe, provisions regarding the process of appointment, the number of appointees and the manner of their operation is already set out in the legislation. We are concerned now with the names of the three individuals. On 13 December last, the Government nominated the following persons for appointment by the President to be members of the Garda Síochána ombudsman commission: Mr. Justice Kevin Haugh, chairperson, Ms Carmel Foley and Mr. Conor Brady. It is necessary for the Dáil and Seanad to recommend their appointment through a resolution. Mr. Justice Kevin Haugh is well known as a judge of the High Court, Ms Foley is equally well known as the Director of Consumer Affairs, and Mr. Brady is a former editor of The Irish Times. The Minister did all he could to select three apolitical people who are suitable and have a range of experience in both judicial and administrative matters.

If the House believes there should be a debate about the names — and that is the issue which will be discussed — it can take place tonight. We have already made the arrangements with the President to nominate the appointees, as required. However, if Members wish to discuss the suitability of these people and have a debate about them with the Minister and me, that is fine. However, we will not debate anything other than the three names. I have no objection if the Whips decide the House should sit late tonight to discuss the suitability of Mr. Justice Haugh, Ms Foley and Mr. Brady.

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