Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I understand from speaking to former members of the Arts Council that the remaining members are not quorate. Given that the budget will be announced shortly, they are most anxious that they will be in a position to implement their spending plans with all speed immediately after the budget. At the moment they feel hamstrung owing to the lack of members.

I wish to comment about the independence of members of boards, particularly the chairperson of a board. I do not in any way criticise the outgoing chairperson of the Arts Council, who was superb and very committed. Nevertheless she was placed in an invidious position, being clearly a supporter of a particular party. When people have two masters it is very difficult for them to perform their job with absolute independence. I can think of other cases. For instance, the chairperson of the Disability Authority is also the CEO of Rehab. It is client and master together and it is a very difficult position in which to place people.

I am anxious that there would be transparency in the appointment of people to the Arts Council, in particular where independence is required. They are supposed to be the challengers of society who question what we do and how we go forward. The Minister should ensure that whoever is appointed will be able to serve the arts community and the taxpayer rather than any political master.

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