David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am grateful to the Minister because he seems to be accepting a large part of the principle of this amendment. As such, we are at least in agreement on this point. It is very interesting that one of the points the Minister makes is that he will seek to amend the Bill by withdrawing section 49(2) which states:

In the event that a person appointed to judicial office has not been recommended by the Commission under this Act, the Minister shall within 30 days of that appointment cause to be laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas a statement containing a reasoned written explanation of the decision of the Government not to nominate a candidate recommended by the Commission.

This is a most extraordinary provision.