David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Merit is of critical importance in this section, but it is not mentioned. It seems to me that Senator McDowell has a very good arguable case that it should be mentioned as it is the principal criterion. Section 7(1) states, "A decision to recommend, under this Act, a person for appointment to judicial office shall be based on merit." Merit is the number one consideration, right up at the front. I think it useful for that to be reiterated at this point to make it abundantly clear that these appointments are made primarily on merit.