David Norris (Independent)

I apologise if I repeat anything that has been said already. I intended no discourtesy by my absence from the Chamber for the beginning of the debate. I had to undergo a minor medical procedure and the surgeon was only available today. I came here as quickly as I could.

I have a major aversion to the word "stakeholder". I know what it means, but I do not like it. However, I suppose it is necessary to use it in some circumstances.

I agree with some aspects of Senator Rónán Mullen's contribution. I went to two schools, one of which was extremely good and the other appalling. As far as I could tell, it had nothing whatever to do with the board of management in either case. I certainly agree that the criterion should be what is best for children. It is splendid that people give up considerable amounts of time on a voluntary basis to serve on boards of management.

I may be confusing matters, but I seem to recall Senator Rónán Mullen saying he had served on some 114 boards.