Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As regards precedents for a scenario, if such a precedent exists, it is wrong and is a matter that should be visited at the first legislative opportunity afforded to each line Minister. This is because there is in place a recruitment process and there is a scenario that must be followed. This provision shows blatant disregard for that and it is being used as an excuse to state this is how it must be done because one wants things done quickly and it is the right thing to do. Mr. Joe O'Toole, a former Senator of many years standing, always used to make the point that rushed legislation is bad legislation. Interim scenarios and proposals like this are wrong. Moreover, as I believe the Minister also knows this, there must be some other reason to prevent the adoption of due process in this regard.

There must be another reason for not allowing these people through the recruitment process quickly. It could be done to give the public confidence and cover all of the bases in terms of what the Minister is trying to achieve and what we on this side of the House are anxious to support. We will press the amendment.