Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I intend to ask questions of the board because I am mindful that members have been here and have not really had an opportunity to contribute. Senator Sherlock has exceeded her time. If the matter is so important, she should have raised it at the beginning of her contribution. I have given as much latitude as I can. The Senator has had much more than ten minutes, as I think the clerk would agree. It is now my turn and as my questions follow on from the Senator's, she will get answers. The witnesses can address Senator Sherlock's questions when answering mine if they feel they want to respond.

I do not have much to say. I want to hear from each of the board members. I have two brief questions for each of them, starting with Mr. Hickey and Mr. Murphy. I am conscious they have been dialling in to the meeting from outside. They have been very patient. For how long have the witnesses been on the board? That is my first question. My second question relates to their working relationship. Ms Doherty made it very clear to the committee and the public that she was completely in the dark and had no idea what was going on, which is a real shame, during whatever her term was, whether five or seven years. Do the witnesses concur with that view?

The third issue is whether the witnesses see change. That is really important. As has been alluded to, they are the custodians of this organisation. We have a body of work to do collectively. I will start with Mr. Hickey.