I propose to take Questions Nos. 171 and 172 together.
Horse Racing Ireland is a commercial state body responsible for the overall administration, promotion and development of the horse racing industry.
On 30 September 2014 the Government announced changes to the system for appointments to State Boards including that all appointments should be advertised on www.stateboards.ie, operated by the Public Appointments Service (PAS).
The Deputy will be aware that the Board has its own obligations in relation to compliance with corporate governance standards. My Department has arrangements in place to monitor the activities of State Bodies and ensure compliance with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies.
It is my understanding that the position will be advertised on www.stateboards.ie in the coming weeks.