Tony Kett (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister of State to the House and join with my colleagues in wishing the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell well in his talks with the Taoiseach and Minister for Foreign Affairs.

I wish to second the amendment tabled by Senator Jim Walsh. The motion and amendment recognise that an excellent contribution has been made by the visiting committees regarding the welfare and protection of prisoners' rights throughout the State. I had the pleasure of serving on such a committee in the late 1970s. This motion contains an undertone – whether or not people on the other side accept it – that this is some type of gravy train. While I was working in the Mater Hospital and living in Drumcondra, I was appointed to St. Patrick's Institution. I am feeling somewhat cheated that no bonanza of expenses existed in those days.

I have always felt such committees are very worthwhile. I achieved a great deal of personal satisfaction in that one is seen as someone who can play a meaningful role in the lives of people who have fallen foul of the system. It was acknowledged and accepted that even though the committee was part of the bureaucracy of the prison system, it was still a body of people to whom prisoners could look for assistance. The committee was the catalyst which enabled people to convey their point of view.

The motion also seeks greater transparency regarding political appointments. I do not understand from where this has come given that Members stated in their contributions that they are happy with the Minister of the day making the judgment call on those appointed to such positions. I am sure he receives assistance and recommendations when making these appointments and that he takes into account the diversity of background of the people involved. That is the case in relation to some of the people already appointed to such positions.