Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I want to clarify this issue because a number of Members have mentioned it. I have never referred to how many names there were. There were five expressions of interest. It it not good practice to start talking about how many names there were but in the interests of clarity I wish to be very clear. There were five expressions of interest, plus the recommendation through the JAAB.

I have said very clearly that I spoke to the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste, the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, and the Attorney General after I had deliberated. I did not move on this process immediately. It is a very sensitive and confidential process so the answer to the Deputy's question is "No". I did not speak to officials or anybody else about it.

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