Vol. 538 No. 3
319 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason vocational education committee members employed in the public sector are excluded from being paid the fee for serving on standard interview boards; his views on whether this is discriminatory and will lead to difficulties establishing interview boards; if he will review this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17865/01]
Participation by VEC members on selection boards is an entirely voluntary public service. All members of VEC selection boards are paid appropriate expenses at standard rates. I am conscious, however, that in the case of VEC members, who are not serving public servants, that their time contribution involves a cost factor. Accordingly I am prepared, in the circumstances, to agree that an appropriate recognition in the way of fees be given to such members.
In making themselves available for selection boards, I wish to acknowledge the important contribution that committee members are making to the selection process.
