Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In regard to Senator Wilson's point about the exclusion of particular people from appointment to the boards, paragraph 3 deals with the resignation and removal of members from the board. These are normal provisions in respect of boards such as Sport Ireland. There is nothing different being done in relation to this board that does not apply to other boards.

On appointments to the board, Senator Bradford or any other person interested in putting their name forward must adhere to the new regulations in this regard. Such persons can express their interest on the State boards' website when the specifications have been advertised. One of the issues considered in this regard was whether sporting organisations such as the GAA, FAI or IRFU or other sections of society should be allowed to nominate a person for election to the board. However, in the context of funding allocation, I could not allow this as it might lead to particular organisations representing their own sport. As Senators will be aware, the new governing procedures are in place. The posts will be advertised and people will have an opportunity to apply for membership of any State board.

On committees, a number of new sub-committees will be necessary. As Members will be aware, there is already in existence an anti-doping committee. Consideration is being given to outside people having an opportunity to chair some of these committees. These important committees, particularly the anti-doping committee, will comprise professionals with expertise in the area. It is anticipated that three to four chairpersons will need to be appointed in respect of the new committees. In regard to appointments generally, people will have an opportunity to express their interest in that regard. As discussed earlier, there will be times when we will have to engage consultants to address a particular problem.