Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I concur with those who said that local representatives should not be automatically excluded. Many of them have the commitment and are imbued with the spirit of public service. I note that they are much more the active members of any boards to which they are appointed compared with some other members. They should not be excluded simply because they are involved in local politics. There has been an inclination to do this. People should be appointed on the basis of their expertise and ability to make a positive contribution and these should be the only criteria. The responsibility should rest with the Department but should be subject to the approval of the Government and checks by these Houses to ensure the people meet the criteria.