Michael McDowell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 101:

In page 35, line 19, after “shall” to insert “ensure it is compliant with section 7(1)and shall also”.

This provision seeks to insert the words “ensure it is compliant with section 7(1)and shall also” after line 19 on page 35. The purpose of the amendment is to ensure the overriding requirement that appointments be made on merit would not be forgotten in the drafting of the procedure committee's statement of aptitude in favour of the other criteria mentioned such as the need for gender equality and recognition of social diversity. It seems that in mentioning these issues and not repeating the principle of appointment on merit there is a danger that the focus on appointments being made on merit may be diluted or ignored.