Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

We have ploughed much of this ground before. It is necessary to set out the formal process for the appointment of the deputy chairperson, and the Bill simply states the appointment is to be made in writing by the chairperson of the commission. We know who that will be.

I know it has been and surely will be for a while the subject of much debate as to who the deputy chairperson should be and who should have an input into the selection process. Only one member of the commission is precluded in the Bill from being the deputy chairperson, namely, the Secretary General. All other members have an equal chance of being selected for the role.

The Bill does not preclude the chairperson from consulting his committee. I expect that, in the selection of a chairperson by any committee comprising eminent Members of both Houses, it will come to a wise decision. If it is decided that the Cathaoirleach of the Seanad is the person deemed to be suitable, I have no problem with this. If we dictate to the new commission exactly how it should fulfil its functions, it will deplete its effectiveness and independence.

I do not want to adopt a belt and braces approach by pointing out the scenarios in which it might be necessary to appoint a deputy chairperson because it will be in exceptional circumstances. The committee will meet when it suits and is necessary and the chairperson will be anxious to be involved because it is a small group with onerous duties. In the few cases that the chairperson is not available, as will be made clear in the Bill, the appointment will be made in writing. I stand over the position I took yesterday and for that reason I cannot accept the amendment.