In line with Government policy to introduce greater transparency in the appointment of members of State Boards, I have sought expressions of interest, on a number of occasions since coming to Office, from suitably qualified persons to fill vacancies that have arisen on the boards of various agencies within my Department’s remit. The overriding objective of all appointments is to provide boards with levels of expertise and experience that contribute to their effective operations.
National Standards Authority of Ireland
On 6th March 2012, I appointed Ms Barbara O’Leary and Mr Terry Landers to the board of the NSAI. Both Ms O’Leary and Mr Landers applied through the expressions of interest process. In August 2012, expressions of interest in appointment to the board were again invited. These are currently under consideration.
National Consumer Agency
On 6th May 2012, I appointed Ms Coleen Savage and Mr Eugene Gallagher to the board of the NSAI. Both Ms Savage and Mr Gallagher applied through the expressions of interest process. In August 2012, expressions of interest in appointment to the board were again invited. These are currently under consideration.
IDA Ireland
On 6th February 2012, I appointed Mr Alan Gray and Ms Mary Campbell to the board of IDA Ireland. While these posts were publicly advertised, neither of those appointed applied through the expressions of interest process. Ms Campbell was identified following consultations with IDA Ireland to nominate a person with relevant financial experience for my consideration for appointment to the board.
Irish Auditing and Accounting Supervisory Authority
On 1st September, I appointed Ms Muireann O’Neill to the board of IAASA. Ms O’Neill had applied through the expressions of interest process.
Personal Injuries Assessment Board
In relation to the board of PIAB, I have made the following appointments - Mr Martin Naughton (with effect from 5th April 2012), Dr Fionnuala O’Loughlin (1st August 2012) and Mr John Lynch (also 1st August 2012). All three were appointed following a request for expressions of interest.
Planned Appointments
In addition to the vacancies on the boards of National Consumer Agency and the National Standards Authority of Ireland, expressions of interest have also been sought in respect of appointment to the board of Science Foundation Ireland. These are currently under consideration.