Pat O'Neill (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We have discussed the legislation comprehensively with the stakeholders. The biggest issue for stakeholders is the make-up of the board, which is being reduced from 13 to 12 members, with the Minister to appoint three members. I suggest that we make a recommendation to the Department on this issue because some of the stakeholders feel they are being left out of the system by not getting a place on the board. I welcome Mr. Gleeson's comment that Indecon had indicated the number should be reduced from 13 to 12. Does he envisage the board being increased by two to 14 or 15 members in order that all stakeholders can be represented? This is an important industry and everyone should have a say on the board of HRI.