Brendan Ryan (Labour)

I move amendment No. 9:

In page 12, line 2, after "Minister,", where it firstly occurs, to insert the following:

"with the approval of a committee of Dáil Éireann nominated for the purpose".

The amendment would provide for Oireachtas scrutiny of the appointment of members of the FÁS board. It would stipulate this should be done with the approval of a committee of Dáil Éireann nominated for the purpose. As I stated on Second Stage, I support the reduction in the number of board members but I still have difficulties with the manner of their appointment because the appointment of friends of the Minister of the day remains a possibility, which is a major concern of my party. Oireachtas scrutiny should be provided for and the old days of political appointments must come to an end. The amendment would go some way towards addressing the problem which, I hope, will be solved.