Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Many people are available for public service who have served on State boards with much distinction. We must look always to obtain people who have the talent and expertise to do the job and ensure we have a good cross section of people who are not only technocratically capable to deal with issues but also have a broader public service experience. Appointments should be made on the basis of merit, taking into account the skills, qualifications and experience of the person to be appointed, as well as any other relevant criteria, including requirements in respect of gender balance.

See this speech in context