I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 52 together.
The Planning and Development Acts 2000-11 provide that the Board comprises a Chairperson and up to 9 ordinary members. The processes for the appointment of the Chair and ordinary Board Members are clearly and transparently set out under sections 105-107 of the Act and associated regulations.
In relation to the position of Chairperson, the appointment is made by Government from candidates selected by an independent statutory selection committee. The composition of this committee is set out under section 105 of the Act and, where a vacancy arises, the committee is required to select a maximum of three suitable candidates from among those who compete in a publicly advertised open competition. The selection committee established in accordance with the Act includes:
the President of the High Court
the Chairperson of An Taisce
the Cathaoirleach of the General Council of County Councils
the President of the Executive Council of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.
Dr. Mary Kelly was appointed in May 2011 on foot of this process.
The appointment process for ordinary Board Members, set out under section 106 of the Act, provides that appointments are made by the Minister from nominees put forward by four representative panels of nominating bodies prescribed for this purpose. The organisations which make up these nominating panels are set out in Article 64 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 as amended. These bodies represent a wide range of interests so that potential appointees are drawn from a balanced group of people, with diverse backgrounds, who can reach a balanced view on the issues with which the Board is concerned. Each body in each panel was invited to nominate two candidates for consideration for appointment to the Board.
Arising from four recent appointments made by Minister Hogan, the Board will shortly comprise eight members including the Chair. In making these appointments cognisance was taken of the balance of skill sets and expertise required by Board members for the effective discharge of An Bord Pleanála's complex and wide ranging functions, as well as the balance of skill sets and qualifications held by existing Board members. None of the recent appointments was made under section 106(1)(e). I am satisfied that the current nomination and appointment process is fair and transparent.
