Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

A number of points have been raised by Senators arising out of Senator McDowell's contribution. In particular, the issue was raised some moments ago of persons who are not shortlisted being aware of their position. The Bill makes no provision for informing the applicants of their position in respect of shortlisting. It does not prohibit the commission from doing this either but I refer to Part 8 of the Bill later on under section 53(5)(h) where the Bill specifically refers to "the need for good standards of communications with applicants for judicial office, and the provision otherwise of a good standard of service to them in respect of applications made by them under this Act". That is important here-----