Madam, – Dr Vicky Conway (February 9th) and Mark Coen (February 11th) differ over which aspects of the background of members of the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission are considerations relevant to their appointment.
There is no doubt that Dermot Gallagher, Carmel Foley and Conor Brady are public servants of the highest integrity who have made sterling contributions to national life during their respective careers.
However, if it is to be fully effective, the Ombudsman Commission must not only be, but be seen to be, completely independent and impartial.
In Northern Ireland, an open and transparent recruitment process must be followed to recruit the Police Ombudsman. The introduction of a similar rule here would scotch the myth that the best-paid public appointments in the State are jobs for the boys. – Yours, etc,
MARK KELLY,
Director, Irish Council for Civil Liberties,
Blackhall Place,
Dublin 7.