I propose to take Questions Nos. 682, 683 and 689 together.
Arising from the joint ministerial initiative on the review of local and community development structures, the Government recently agreed a series of measures which provide for revised arrangements in relation to the board membership and mandate of integrated local and community development agencies and urban-based partnerships, the appointment by Government of the Chairs and the preferred coverage areas of integrated structures from now on.
The Government has decided that it should select the Chairs of the boards of these local agencies from three nominations put forward by the local boards. This decision reflects the importance of these local development agencies and the public accountability issues arising from the significant public funds that they will disburse under a wide range of programmes. The decision also recognises the Chairs as a significantly influential group as their agencies will operate throughout the state. In this regard important issues such as gender and skills balance within the group arise which, in the Government's view, require national oversight.