Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

Amendment No. 12 is straightforward. It asks that details of each person's suitability and expertise be laid before each House of the Oireachtas. European Commissioners recently had to endure intense scrutiny. All state appointments in America go before either the House of Representatives or the Senate, and proposed appointees are placed under immense pressure to explain themselves. I am not advocating such measures, but each person should have his or her details placed before the Houses of the Oireachtas so we can scrutinise them.

Unfortunately, the need arises because of the debacle surrounding the Irish Blood Transfusion Board in Cork where there was difficulty regarding political appointments to the board. The end result was that many people resigned, the board broke up and there was chaos. Apart from the anguish of board members, the ordinary public also suffered. This amendment seeks to avoid such a scenario. It is normal for there to be tension on any board. However, we want to avoid a situation whereby people are appointed purely for political reasons without the necessary expertise to be of benefit to the board or the public. Eleven people will be in charge of a budget of €11 billion. That is a lot of money and it is vital those selected carry out their work and make an input that will be of benefit to all.