Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

Of course I have full confidence in the authorities referred to by the Deputy, although he will appreciate that I did not appoint the persons in question. However, I have confidence in the operation of these authorities. If it falls to me to make appointments I will of course take great care in doing so, as they are of great importance in the financial administration of the State. However, I have no reason to lack confidence in these boards or authorities as a Minister.

With regard to the more general question of appointments, there is an issue of whether suitable persons would come forward if they were to be subjected to the Star Chamber of committee interrogation in the House. This is something on which we should reflect in deciding whether we want to go down that route. There is also the more general issue that a harmonious relationship between a board and a government is desirable, irrespective of the political colour of that government. The fact that the appointment is made by a government does ensure that the appointee understands the special relationship that necessarily exists.

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