Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is not acceptable that this appointment should be made by the Minister. I am not making a personal criticism of the Minister of State. However, appointing a chief executive and proceeding from there is an exceptionally bad way to approach this issue. A fair, open and transparent competition must be held. From that point of view, I put the Minister on notice that I will vigorously pursue this matter and insist, to the best of my ability, that the process be seen to be open and transparent.
The State has invested a great deal in implementing a mechanism for the appointment of individuals to senior positions in the public service. The Minister of State will be aware of Government proposals which will require even those who wish to be appointed to a board to apply for appointment and undergo a degree of vetting. This is an appropriate and fitting approach that moves in the right direction. It is not acceptable to have any type of ad hoc system in place for the appointment of the chief executive of Sport Ireland. I am not satisfied with this provision because it does not spell out how to ensure the appointment system will be seen to be fair, transparent and open. I am not attacking the Minister of State but seeking to provide protection for him. I will work with him to try to find a solution that meets the needs of everyone concerned.