Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 March 2013
84. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Skills when he will fill the nine vacancies on the board of the Higher Education Authority; the number of persons who expressed an interest to be appointed to the board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13384/13]
View answerIn accordance with the requirements of the Higher Education Authority Act 1971, members of the Authority are appointed by the Government on the recommendation of the Minister for Education and Skills, following consultation with the Chairman of the Authority. There are no current vacancies on the Board.
A number of vacancies arose on the Authority at the end of January 2012, and, in accordance with Government policy, expressions of interest were sought through the Public Appointments Service (PAS) from suitably qualified and experienced persons for consideration for appointment to the Authority. A total of 81 persons registered an interest in serving as a member of the board through this process. Two of the nine positions filled on the Authority came through the PAS.
