Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

A lot of the appointments I make in the Department of the Taoiseach come from nominating bodies. Regarding the legislative commitment, as I said, the renewed programme for Government is to extend out between now and June 2012. We will take forward the proposals agreed in that programme in due course.

Regarding the question of Oireachtas involvement in this area, I am aware of an approach adopted by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources in respect of bodies provided for in the Broadcasting Act 2009. There may be merit in giving some consideration to involving committees of the House in appointments to some boards. However, different boards require different approaches and each needs to be treated on its own basis. I am satisfied that, when bringing forward proposals on any State boards that may be established, each Minister will provide for the most appropriate basis from which to draw membership.

See this speech in context