Seán Sherlock
Ceist:14. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans being put in place to employ a new chief executive for Tusla. [45919/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 7 November 2018
Ceisteanna (14)
Freagraí scríofa
Under the Child and Family Agency Act, 2013, the Board of Tusla is responsible for the appointment of the new Chief Executive Officer.
The Act requires my approval and the approval of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform for the terms and conditions of the job that the Board may wish to set. However, I have no function in the selection process.
Following the resignation of the previous Chief Executive, Tusla consulted with my Department and the Public Appointments Service and discussed the process of recruiting a new permanent Chief Executive Officer.
Given the likely timelines associated with recruitment of this senior post, my Department secured approval from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform for Tusla to appoint an interim chief executive officer from within Tusla’s senior management team.
The successful candidate at interview was Mr Pat Smyth. He was appointed to the role in an interim capacity with effect from 1st of October 2018. His appointment ensures continuity in the operations of Tusla’s functions.
I met with members of the Board on 1st October. Among other things, we discussed the Board's plans, considerations as to the specifications of the role and the intended recruitment process. This process will involve the Public Appointments Service running an open competition. It will also involve an element of executive search to help to identify suitable applicants.
My Department will work with Tusla and the Public Appointments Service to assist as required with this recruitment. My Department will shortly engage with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform to seek approval of the terms and conditions for the permanent Chief Executive post.
This is one of the most challenging and important roles in the country. Tusla will have a budget next year of some €786m, with more than 4,000 staff providing frontline services to vulnerable children and their families.
It is essential that a candidate of the highest calibre is recruited to lead on the transformation and delivery of effective child and family services in Ireland.
I appointed two new members to the Board in 2018 who have a professional background in Human Resource Management. I am confident that the Board will find the most suitable candidate for this important role.