Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

Senator Mullen says it is five individuals. He is accusing me of trying to enact legislation to benefit an individual when we know this legislation will extend eligibility for appointment to thousands of barristers and solicitors. However, for some reason, both Senators have made a mountain out of a molehill with regard to this legislation and seem to be engaging in special pleading for what Senator Mullen states is five members of the Defence Forces. I do not know the exact number; it is possibly fewer than five.

I am accused of trying to introduce legislation that provides a far broader test of eligibility in order that there will be a real pool of people from whom the military judge can be chosen. For an hour and a half, Senators Mullen and O'Donovan have entertained this House because they want to try to ensure the next military judge will be chosen from a group of five.