Enda Kenny
Question:8 Mr. Kenny asked the Taoiseach the number of people under 25 years of age appointed to the boards of State-sponsored bodies; if he will outline the bodies concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - State-Sponsored Bodies Appointments.
In relation to the bodies under the aegis of my Department, no such appointments have been made.
Given the fact that the Taoiseach outlined as his own criteria for appointment the qualities of merit, ability and performance, will he, in the context of an open and carrying Government, commit himself to the appointment in future of people under 25 years of age to State bodies under the aegis of his Department?
The Deputy can be assured that young people with ability and merit rate as highly in my book as in that of anybody else. I will bring this matter to the notice of my Department and others, that where suitable young people are available they should be encouraged and promoted.
There was speculation in regard to people of merit, ability and performance being appointed last week. Will the Taoiseach guarantee that where suitable and appropriate, appointments will be filled in future by people under 25 years of age?
I understand that the National Youth Council of Ireland have one representative on NESC and I am sure that the person is known to the Deputy——
Deputy Deenihan had him appointed.
On a point of order, may I seek clarification as to whether the questions in the name of Deputy Spring are withdrawn until the crisis in the Labour Party is over.
That is not a point of order, it is an intrusion into Question Time which is quite unjustified.
He is willing to speak for them.
He has probably gone "Stagg" hunting.