Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have good news for Senator Craughwell as I will accept amendment No. 87b. I am amenable to it and I indicated as much last night. I would be happy to accept it and in the event of there being any unforeseen difficulty, we can come back to it on Report Stage. I indicated some weeks ago that I was keen to find a solution with what I felt was a worthwhile proposal on the part of the Senators. I will accept it and it can be the subject matter of further debate if appropriate. It is a fair point.

With respect to amendment No. 87a, I have listened to Senator Craughwell speaking about delays in appointments. Much of the lead-in work described by Senator Craughwell over the past number of days and nights is already in place. The procedures and requirements for particular posts will be set out in the published statements under Part 8 of the Bill. This will be the job specification, the appropriate experience, attributes, qualities and what will be sought. The job description and requirements will not have to be designed each time a vacancy arises. I will not revisit last night's debate on delays but I am conscious of what Senators have said. I am conscious that there should not be any form of delay. I will not accept amendment No. 87a as it is not necessary or essential. I ask the Senator to withdraw it. I will accept amendment No. 87b.