Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate the image Deputy Daly wishes to portray but I assure her it is far from the reality. The Irish National Stud is a commercial State body. The appointment of a chief executive officer is a matter for the board of the Irish National Stud, subject to the consent of the relevant Ministers. I understand a recruitment competition is currently under way.

The Deputy will be aware that the board has its own obligations in relation to compliance with corporate governance standards. My Department has arrangements in place to monitor the activities of State bodies and ensure compliance with the code of practice for the governance of State bodies.

I understand the current CEO of the Irish National Stud has announced that he is stepping down from the position. I am aware that he has done an excellent job as CEO of the stud and I wish to add my voice to the many tributes that are rightly being paid to him. I understand that the INS board may request a temporary extension to the current CEO's contract to facilitate a smooth transition to a new CEO and I am open to considering that in line with Government policy and guidelines. I am sure the Deputy would wish to acknowledge the CEO's contribution as well.

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