Batt O'Keeffe (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I do not accept these amendments because it would restrict the Minister's choice in appointing the chairperson of the appeals board to practising barristers or solicitors. Those who have qualified as barristers or solicitors and do not practise or have retired from practice should not be excluded from appointment. The important consideration is that those appointed have the capacity and skill to undertake the work. In making such appointments the Minister will have this in mind.

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