Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are not talking about the degree of connection to the profession here. Regarding the two nominees from the Judicial Council, it is about an understanding of the role, how it operates, how people feel and an appreciation and understanding of what is required. This is why we have the interview process as well. It is not about the connection to the profession and removing that connection or suggesting it is not important. It is about the role itself, and making sure the interview process focuses solely on the role and somebody's suitability for it. That is why we have set this out.