State board appointments
Eugene Murphy asked how many State board appointments had been filled and how many vacancies remained under the new appointments system. The Taoiseach said he could not give the figures immediately but would obtain the details and explain how the PAS process operated.
I call Deputy Eugene Murphy. There will be short, snappy answers. The Deputy can accommodate those who have been waiting here all day.
Comment on this
Page 151 of the programme for Government refers to the reform of appointments to State boards and the Government's intention to put the system of appointments introduced in November 2014 on a statutory footing by the end of 2016. Time and again, the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Ross, has failed to deal with this issue. The Taoiseach can smile all he likes, but it is a fact.
Comment on this
People have told me it is important that these appointments be made. How many positions have been filled on such boards and how many vacancies are there? I want clear answers.
Comment on this
I cannot answer that question for the Deputy. The fact is that, under the Public Appointments Service, PAS, people apply online for positions that may become vacant in any of these. They are assessed and identified independently as to the conditions, the experience and the competence to do a job. Recommendations are then sent to the Minister of the day in order that he or she can pick from those. I will find out for the Deputy how many of these positions need to be filled and whether they are being applied for and responded to under the PAS system.