Ulick Burke (Fine Gael)

When the Minister advertises for nominations from community and interest groups, would it be more appropriate that such nominations should be made to him by these groups so that he could then make the appointments with due caution rather than adopting the modus operandi he proposes? A Minister should not put himself or herself in that position and it would be much fairer if the groups knew their interests would be articulated satisfactorily on their behalf. The Minister stated that when the representatives are appointed they become board members and work on behalf of the board, not the community or interest groups. Such groups should make nominations for the Minister's approval rather than us accepting this amendment.