Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 May 2005
121 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Taoiseach the procedures he follows in vetting persons being considered for appointments to State boards under his aegis, especially in regard to tax compliance and any other issue which, if revealed, would make a person unsuitable for appointment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14822/05]
View answerAppointments to statutory boards under the aegis of my Department are subject to the relevant legislation governing the establishment of the board. In considering a person's suitability for appointment to such boards, regard would be given to a range of factors, including individual expertise and any known, or potential, conflict of interest. Under the Ethics in Public Office Act, normal disclosure requirements apply to members of boards, once they have been appointed, where the body is prescribed in regulations made by the Minister for Finance.
In relation to tax compliance by persons being considered for appointment to State boards, the Department of Finance, in conjunction with other relevant Departments, is considering whether tax clearance certificates can and should be required of such persons. Based on the outcome of that process, a decision will be made on whether any change to the existing arrangements is appropriate or not.
