..."would add “another male clerical layer to ministry” "...

The real problem is not just that it would add 'another MALE' layer, but that it would add another 'CLERICAL' layer.

True enough ..."It is sad that the sole solution given to us by the bishops is the male diaconate. It is beyond comprehension that men at the top table can’t find other solutions."...

The basic cause of our 'priest shortage' problem is that extending the Episcopal function of 'priesthood' etc. is presently restricted to 'clerics'.

When the bishops realize that they can, and chose to, designate LAY people - MEN AND WOMEN - to extend their presence and functions, then we will begin to solve our self-created problem. 
 
It is already being done, for many of the functions we used to reserve to 'priests only'. We have lay Eucharistic ministers, lay people praying their parts of the liturgy, lay parish administrators, lay diocesan chancellors, lay theologians, lay spiritual counsellors, etc.

Eliminate CLERICS