Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will also be short and sweet. I thank the Minister for his comprehensive background to this issue. I note the Bill passed all Stages in the Dáil on 21 February 2018. It is a short Bill, as he said, that seeks to alter the current position that had the effect of barring an external candidate aged over 55 years from applying for the position of Garda Commissioner. That raises serious concerns and is something of which I was not aware. I do not know how that arrangement was allowed sit for so long. It is extraordinary.

Let us be clear. I am a great believer in simple messages and one of the things I have found since becoming a Member of this House is that when a fellow says that something is complicated, one wants to sit up and look. I refer to that type of diversionary tactic. When politicians say, "It is all very complicated" or "It is in the Bill for a very good reason", one really needs to start digging. However, I was amazed that the legislation precluded external candidates over 55 years of age from applying for the position but if they were internal candidates, that was grand. They could stay on until the age of 60. The issue has now come to us today for discussion. That is my simple message because sometimes setting the narrative is important and the narrative that needs to be set is that at this late stage, the issue is being addressed and that has to be welcomed.

The sole purpose of the Bill is to ensure that the same age limit applies internally and externally to the candidates for appointment to the rank of Garda Commissioner and deputy Garda commissioner. The Minister is right. It is a fundamental position within our State. I wish him well with the Bill. Originally, I thought this job was advertised but I understand now that it has not been advertised.