Kevin O'Keeffe (Cork East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In respect of governance, the Minister feels that small is beautiful and the fewer numbers the better. My concern is proper representation and that a cross-section is represented. One position has been filled because we need an accountant. It is important the Minister understands we need a cross-section. We do not need a further seven suits from the city. We need some representatives from the rural community such as the road hauliers or local authorities. This must be examined before the Minister starts chopping the size of boards. We need to make sure boards can cover the areas for which they are responsible. In the case of the RSA, board members should come from a cross-section of people, be it those involved in business or in the community. I ask that this be recorded.