Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

Appointments to boards are made on the basis of knowledge, expertise and experience that individuals can bring to the work of the boards. In many cases, appointments are made on the basis of nomination by relevant groups, such as the social partners. I have listed all the groups. In so far as there is a breakdown — it is not between political parties — it is evident in respect of NESC, for example, which has been in existence for a long time. Five of its board members are nominated by agriculture and farming organisations, five by business and employer organisations, five by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and five by community and voluntary organisations. Five are nominated independently by the Government and Secretaries General of various Departments are included. There is a breakdown and it is the same with the NESF and the NCPP, although the process is slightly different. It is certainly not done on a political basis.

See this speech in context