Statement by Brendan Howlin on the appointment of Máire Whelan to the Court of Appeal

“Máire Whelan is a woman of immense ability. I have no doubt that she would sail through any objective process.

 “Unfortunately, it seems that no objective test has been applied in this case. The way this has been done is absolutely wrong.

 “Anyone who is qualified for a role such as this should have the opportunity to apply for it, and for that application to be handled in an objective and transparent manner.

“For all his preaching about judicial appointments, it seems as though Shane Ross sat on his hands because Stepaside Garda station will now reopen.

“We believe it would be in everyone’s best interests, including Máire Whelan’s, if she now submitted an application for this role through the normal channels.”