Sean Barrett (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 19:

In page 10, paragraph 1(4), line 18, to delete "6 months" and substitute "1 month".

The Minister of State has impressed on us the importance of this body. In such circumstances, why leave positions vacant for six months? Let us bring it up to strength immediately when there is a vacancy. This is one of the many amendments I have proposed, but it is also one of the most important. If someone leaves or the chairman resigns, we should bring in a replacement quickly rather than waiting for half a year to do so. As the Minister of State indicated, circumstances can change rapidly. It was not the Government's intention for the council to have four members instead of five for a lengthy period. That is the purpose of the amendment. It is important to ensure the team will not be a man short when it takes to the field.