Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

The Taoiseach did not respond to my question on a code of conduct or ethics legislation applying to members of State boards.

The Taoiseach quipped as to what he would like to do with people associated with Sinn Féin getting on to these boards. Does the Taoiseach recall that he has acknowledged, both in the House and outside it, that he has appointed friends of his to such positions? I recall that distinctly. I am sure they were all deserved appointees but I do not believe we can erase what has been acknowledged in the past.

My view has nothing to do with the political association of any appointee but that there is transparency in the process. Will the Taoiseach accept the validity of the argument for a simpler system? There are many people, who others will never identify, who might bring good sense and a particular expertise to these positions. The only way to achieve this is to leave the process open for people to present their credentials.

Will the Taoiseach advise as to what steps could be taken to further ensure gender equality in appointments to State boards? I refer to the National Economic and Social Council, NESC, as an example. Should more be done to ensure a 40% achievement for either gender on these State boards, particularly with the NESC? What does the Taoiseach believe should be done in this respect? What steps has he taken to address the serious imbalance in representation along gender lines on State boards?

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