asked the Minister for Justice if he considers it in the national interest that an independent commission for judicial appointments be introduced.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Judicial Appointments Commission.
13.
I have not considered this matter as yet and I would not be prepared to express any view on it without careful examination of all the issues and, in due course, consultation with my colleagues in the Government.
Would the Minister care to express a point of view in relation to the recent appointments by the last Government? Does he not consider these were fair and reasonable appointments? Does he really think there is any need for an independent commission in relation to judicial appointments in view of the successful practice up to this?
The Minister has not yet considered the matter and does not wish to express a view on it without careful consideration. The previous Government did, in fact, reply in the negative to a similar question. It is, I think, something on which this Government have an open mind.
What does the Minister think about it?
If the Deputy is addressing me in my capacity as Minister for Foreign Affairs, this does seem to me to be a rather domestic affair.
Questions Nos. 14 to 18 postponed.