Michael McDowell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Are the 45 people appointed to judicial office by this Government while Deputy Ross sat at the Cabinet table members of some cosy cartel? No, they are not.

I have another question. Is the Leader seriously suggesting that in recent times there has not been a remarkably good set of appointments to the Bench of good women and men, without any hint or allegation of cronyism? Is he forgetful of the fact that time after time the newspapers have reported Deputy Ross saying he would put his foot down and allow no more appointments until this Bill has passed?Has he forgotten all of that or is he so amnesiac that he has forgotten what has actually happened? Does his amnesia extend to agreeing a two-hour debate and then suggesting a seven-hour debate the following day? What is the process that leads to that?