Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Does the Taoiseach agree that the recent comment that the board of FÁS holding a two-day meeting at Mount Juliet recently was inappropriate in the current circumstances, was not the whole story? It should be just inappropriate full-stop, not just because of recessionary times. Indeed, in a time of plenty that type of culture should not be given any approval by Government for State agencies and State boards. Questions Nos. 3 to 6 deal with State boards and, as we are addressing the same entities in the responses to Questions Nos. 1 and 2, what intent does the Taoiseach have to address the culture that has presented itself in the State sector, which tries to emulate what has been unfortunate practice in the private sector for so long? Surely it is an absolute requirement that the Government make an intervention and that sane and sensible practices are adopted by those entrusted to manage our State boards and agencies, without exception.

Concerning appointments, did the former Taoiseach make any appointments to State boards in the period between the announcement of his resignation and the resignation? If so, did he consult with the current Taoiseach in respect of these appointments?

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