Michael Kitt (Fianna Fail)

On Senator Ryan's point about representation, section 14(2)(f) provides that the Taoiseach may nominate a person to represent the category in question. I will convey the Senator's remarks to the Taoiseach in the context of that provision.

With regard to gender balance, the Taoiseach wrote to all parties on foot of a previous debate on that issue. The letter, which I will forward to Senator Moylan if he so wishes, calls on all parties to ensure a gender balance on bodies.

According to the information I have to hand on female representation, women comprise 50% of NESDO, 19% of NESC, 44% of NESF and 29% of the NCCP.