Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)

It is important that charities be represented on the authority. We do not want it filled with political appointees only interested in drawing expenses. The legislation is new, but people have been crying out for regulation for years. We want people interested and involved in the sector. We also want people from outside the sector to give the authority necessary advice. For too long, authorities have been filled with Ministers' supporters and friends, people with nothing to offer to a committee. I call on the Minister of State to place people of good standing in the authority, who can support the legislation and charities and who will be able to make genuine contributions.

While the legislation will be reviewed in five years, I ask that the Minister of State address any unforeseen problems quickly, even if it involves introducing another Bill. This legislation has not been tested, but it is necessary and has been welcomed by charities. I hope that those who work with and understand the problems experienced by charities will be fairly represented on the board.

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