Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is perfectly reasonable to question the motivation of the Senator in any amendment. However, I go back to the import of what Senator McDowell has said as far as particular positions are concerned.I will look at the issue between now and Report Stage and draft an amendment more appropriate to section 11. If the aim of the amendment - this goes to the motivation of Senator McDowell - is to exempt serving members of the Judiciary in their entirety from assessment or evaluation, I have a problem with it because that goes against the policy and fundamental thrust of the Bill, namely, that every applicant or interested person, be they a practitioner or a serving member of the Judiciary, will apply to the commission, as provided for in section 39. If Senator McDowell is referring to an individual position, I will be happy to take a look at it. He reminds me in many respects of the best cow in the dairy herd-----