117 Mrs. Fennell asked the Minister for the Marine 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.

The State bodies under my control (which include Bord Tascaigh Mhara, the Central and Regional Fisheries Boards and the Harbour Authorities) had a total of 364 board members in 1991, of which 115 were Ministerial appointees. There were a total of 8 women on these boards in 1991, 5 of whom were Ministerial appointees.

During 1992 I appointed 3 women to the boards of the Angling Co-Operatives. I am fully committed to advancing the position and status of women in all aspects of my responsibilities. Where vacancies arise on the boards of bodies under my control, I have given, and will continue to give, full regard to the nomination of women to Board positions.