Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 October 2009
297 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has requested all chairpersons and members of boards and agencies under the aegis of his Department to take a reduction in their salary, fee or allowance; when this request was made to take effect; the amount or reduction requested; the boards and agencies which have complied with the request; when the remainder propose to comply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34964/09]
View answerThere are no state agencies operating under the responsibility of my Department. However, there are currently three bodies; two Advisory Committees and one Educational Commission, which operate under the aegis of my Department. All members serving on these bodies do so in a voluntary capacity and are not in receipt of a salary or fee.
The Development Education Advisory Committee was established in 2003 following the recommendations of the Ireland Aid Review Committee. Its purpose is to advise the Minister, Minister of State and Irish Aid on policy regarding development education. All committee members serve in a voluntary capacity.
The Government Emigrant Services Advisory Committee (previously known as Díon) was set up in 1984 to advise the Government on the welfare of the Irish community in Britain. The Committee’s primary role is to advise on the distribution of Government support to voluntary agencies providing front line services and community care to Irish people in Britain. All committee members serve in a voluntary capacity.
The Fulbright Commission (The Board of the Ireland — United States Commission for Educational Exchange) finances study, research, teaching and other educational activities between Ireland and the United States of America. As Minister for Foreign Affairs, I have some statutory obligations in regard to this organisation, including the appointment of four members of the eight-member Commission, who serve in a voluntary capacity.
