Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

I compliment the Senators on drafting and tabling this Bill. I noted with interest that the mover of the motion put much emphasis on opinions put forth on these issues some time ago by our colleague, Senator Boyle. I have no doubt I could find evidence from the past that Senator Ross has changed his mind on certain issues with the passage of time. The same is probably true of Senator O'Toole. I hope this debate will be considered in the context of the work being undertaken in this area under the revised programme for Government, the recommendations of the task force on the public service and the particular emphasis on finding means by which to improve how business is conducted in the broad arena of public services. There is no doubt the Government is determined to introduce change in this regard.

We are all aware of the general public perception in regard to appointments to public bodies and related matters. I am convinced that perception would be more distinct if there were a clear understanding of all that is involved but I am not sure whether some of what has been said tonight will be helpful in this respect. The manner in which one political party was highlighted, as if every one of its members is guilty of cronyism, is unhelpful. The reference in the Bill to the need to eradicate any element of patronage is not particularly helpful.