What is the CV of the chairperson of the board likely to be? The Minister stressed that this board will have to be self-financing and well run. It will also be expected to expedite applications. Where will the Minister look for a chairperson? Will it be somebody involved in the industry or will he look outside it? What specific qualifications will the Minister seek?
SECTION 6.
Question Proposed: "That section 6 stand part of the Bill."
That is a difficult question to address at this stage. Obviously, we will use the term "relevant experience". We will need someone with strong management abilities, who can take an overview of the board's activities and has sufficient knowledge of managing a business and of the industry at large. It will require somebody of considerable ability and will not be an easy position to fill.
There are two expert committees on veterinary and human medicine, the chairpersons of which will be members of the board. The board will employ the technical staff and there will be a great deal of technical expertise. As other Deputies mentioned, we wish to streamline the processing of licences, with safety always being the guiding factor. My instinct is that management skills will be the more relevant factor in choosing the chairperson.
There is a new chief executive officer at present who will transfer automatically to the new body.
Question put and agreed to.