I propose to take Questions Nos. 212 and 213 together.
Details of Membership of Boards and appointment dates and remuneration can be downloaded from the Department's website, this information is updated when any relevant changes occur - http://www.education.ie/. In accordance with Government policy, expressions of interest have been sought through the Public Appointments Service (PAS) from suitably qualified and experienced persons for consideration for appointment to the following boards of Bodies operating under the aegis of my Department: Leárgas Ltd – The Exchange Bureau; The Higher Education Authority; The Qualifications and Quality Assurance Authority of Ireland (to be newly established); The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA); The State Examinations Commission (SEC); The Teaching Council; Grangegorman Development Agency (GDA); National Council for Special Education (NCSE); Residential Institutions Statutory Fund Board (RISF) (to be newly established).
To date, appointments have yet to be made to: The Qualifications and Quality Assurance Authority of Ireland, Grangegorman Development Agency, National Council for Special Education and Residential Institutions Statutory Fund Board. In accordance with Government decision (S/180/20/1424 of 12/04/2011) persons being proposed for appointment as Chairpersons of State Bodies/Agencies are required to make themselves available to the appropriate Oireachtas committee. Vacancies on other boards of Bodies under the aegis of my Department that arise will continue to be advertised on my Department's website. The Deputy should note that in making any direct Ministerial appointments, I am not necessarily confined to those who make such expressions of interest but will ensure that all of those appointed have the relevant skills and competencies for the positions.