150 Mrs. Fennell asked the Minister for Health the number of women on the boards of agencies and companies under his control at the end of 1991; the plans, if any, he has to increase the number in 1992; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Of the 35 agencies which come under the aegis of my Department, a total of 116 women were serving on the boards of these agencies on 31 December, 1991. This figure has now increased to 125 as of today's date.

I am, of course, aware that the Programme for Government commits the Government to further progress in the area of equality and also that the interim report of the Commission on the Status of Women has put forward suggestions specifically on the appointment of women to boards. However, the degree of discretion which can be exercised in this regard in particular appointments is often circumscribed by the consultation or nomination process prescribed in the relevant legislation. Notwithstanding this constraint, the Deputy can be assured that this is a policy which I wholly endorse and will be guided by in considering appointments to boards.

I might also add that I have written to each of the bodies who have a right of nomination to make them aware of the proposals of the Commission on the Status of Women.

Board Membership Summary Details at 19 October 1992.