Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the fact that the Minister has indicated a willingness to consider further the legislation as proposed. What we have before us at present states quite clearly that the Minister will "endeavour, to the greatest extent practicable" to achieve an equal balance between men and women on the NCH board. The phrase "endeavour, to the greatest extent practicable" has no legislative meaning. It is a pretty worthless commitment and is at variance with the Minister has just said in terms of indicating a strong commitment to working towards gender balance. That commitment is not reflected in the text.

Additionally, the Bill as proposed provides that the board shall take policy directions from the Minister "in such a manner and at such intervals as the Minister may direct". I put it to the Minister that this allows for extraordinary potential to interfere in the affairs of a cultural institution.

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