Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

The Senator used the term "opportunistic". There is certainly nothing opportunistic about this Bill. It is important to stress that this is about ensuring that there is robustness and transparency in our planning system.

I will not be accepting the amendment. While it is not envisaged that this provision will be utilised, it is appropriate to provide for the reappointment of an interim chair for a second term in order to ensure that, should there be a delay in appointing a permanent chair for any reason, the existing interim chair can remain in place in the intervening period to ensure the efficient operation of the board.