Paul Bradford (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have listened with interest to Senator Darragh O'Brien. He makes a valid case and has made some interesting observations. If this is to be a new entity with a new beginning and if it is to do all things properly and within the confines of the required standards, it would be far preferable if the first appointment were preceded by a public competition. That would ensure the vacancy was open to all suitably-qualified people and that all suitably qualified people could be considered. The Minister of State might explain to us why that is not the case and why a direct appointment must be made.Perhaps the term of office for the first appointee could be relatively limited in scope - not as a compromise but as a bit of reassurance - so that it would not be a job for life. We previously referred to advisers and consultants. The Minister of State referred to the fact that it is standard practice across all agencies when bodies are being formed that space is provided for consultants and advisers. I would not think it is normal practice for chief executives to come under the ambit of Government Departments. For example, if this was legislation from the Department of Health setting up the HSE or local government legislation setting up new council structures, the initial chief executive positions would be up for general competition and would not be decided in advance. I look forward to hearing the Minister of State explain why it is being written this way. I will not say it is a closed shop because I will not exaggerate but based on my lay analysis of the situation, it is rather unusual that the first appointment is certainly not an example of open-door policy at its best. I look forward to hearing what the Minister of State has to say and perhaps he will convince me otherwise.