John Perry
Ceist:97 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Finance his views on a procedure whereby appointments to State boards would be referred to the appropriate Oireachtas committee before confirmation in their positions. [25629/02]
Written Answers. - Appointments to State Boards.
The arrangements for the composition and appointments to the boards of State bodies are normally set out in the legislation establishing the bodies in question. These arrangements are designed to ensure the efficient management of the individual bodies. Generally, appointments to the boards are made by the Minister with responsibility for the body in question, subject to the consent of the Minister for Finance.
In making appointments, Ministers must take account of any specific legislative or policy requirements such as those contained in the Workers Participation (State Enterprises) Acts or the Government's policy in relation to gender balance on the boards of State bodies. Typically, Ministers seek to ensure that a selection of people are appointed who will bring a diverse range of relevant skills and experiences to the body. Where appropriate, Ministers may also place a value on having representation from the different strands of society such as the business community, consumers, trades unions or the other social partner groups.
I am happy with the current arrangements and have no plans at present to introduce a procedure whereby appointments to State boards would be referred to the appropriate Oireachtas committee before confirmation in their positions. The existing arrangements follow the routines and practices of previous Governments.