Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I do not think that is a proper characterisation of that particular situation. I do not want to go over it again; it is not within the remit of the questions. I was asked what were my appointments under my Department and I have set out that information. The purpose of parliamentary questions is to obtain information.

The situation clearly is that there was a remit as far as the Minister was concerned regarding the building of a hospital on a site. As I understand it, the former chairman subsequently looked at another site. That was outside the remit of the board. If there is a difference of opinion like that, what happens is the person resigns and another appointment is made. It does not take away from the board.

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