David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It was. It is a subject on which I am an acknowledged world authority. Next door to my lectures colleagues might have been lecturing with two students in attendance. It was not my fault. I could not help it if the other lecturers could not attract students, but I was held at the merit bar for junior promotion until the provost intervened. I was quite happy to live on the lowest rung, out of the way, out of sight, ignoring the world and giving my wonderful lectures to a wildly enthusiastic audience. I thank Senator McDowell for his suggestion in that regard. I say this in all modesty, but it just shows that the word "merit" is capable of being subject to quite a number of fluid interpretations, including those motivated by jealousy and spite.