Appointments to State Boards

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 February 2014

Tuesday, 4 February 2014

Questions (204, 205)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

204. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will itemise in tabular form the occasions on which his Department has engaged the services of external professional advice such as a company (details supplied) on the appointment of persons to State boards; if he will list the fees paid in respect of such services; the persons who were ultimately appointed on foot of advice received; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4985/14]

Catherine Murphy

Question:

205. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will identify any instances where a person appointed to a State board after recruitment advice was received from professional external consultants was subsequently deemed to be unqualified for the duties and responsibilities attached to the role; the costs incurred in obtaining advice in respect of each such instance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5001/14]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

I propose to take Questions Nos. 204 and 205 together.

My Department has not sought external professional advice on the appointment of persons to State boards. 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 boards of Bodies operating under the aegis of my Department. 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 qualifications for the positions.