Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

I would deplore any tendency in that regard. Participation in political parties of every type, description and orientation is an important part of the public life of the State and should be esteemed rather than devalued. That is important in making appointments to boards. I do not accept the proposition that because a person is a member of a political party it somehow necessarily disqualifies him or her from appointment. That persons have shown public spirit to be involved in politics tends to qualify rather than disqualify them for appointment. However, I accept the point that we need to be exceptionally careful about these appointments. I am open to suggestions as to how we might improve the method of appointment.

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