There are six statutory bodies under the aegis of my Department: An Bord Bia; Coford; Coillte; Irish National Stud; National Milk Agency and Teagasc. There are currently a total of 69 persons serving on the boards of these bodies, including chairpersons, of whom 12 are women.
I do not have full discretion in relation to appointments to some boards as some appointments are made on the basis of nominations by relevant organisations, in accordance with legislation. While appointments to the boards are made on the basis of technical competence and experience, it is my aim to achieve a reasonable gender balance in this regard.