Chief commissioner
Emily Logan

The human rights watchdog had earlier called on the Government to ensure the process is carried out in line with international standards for an open and transparent selection and appointment process.

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan had written to members of the commission during the summer to indicate he would reappoint them without a competition if they agreed.

An open appointment process is now under way through the Public Appointments Service (PAS).

In a statement, a spokesperson for the commission said: “There was a large interest in the most recent appointment process from highly qualified candidates and a highly competitive open selection process, reflecting the high-level of interest that exists in the Commission. The Commission hopes to see that again.”