Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

We do not want to deal with the psychiatric profession through such stereotypes. However, if we are to establish an independent, quasi-judicial system to replace what currently obtains, which is that there is virtually no possibility of appeal, it would be better to do so using someone expected to have due regard to legality and who knows his or her way around such things as the European Convention on Human Rights, the Constitution and basic procedure. Lawyers are more likely to have that instinct than chaplains, who might be fairer in one sense, being kinder and more generous people. However, they would be embarrassed at being asked to do such a job, and it would not be appropriate.