Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have been placed in a very difficult position. We are in different times in a different country. As Senators are aware, every Bill is proofread. This Bill was drafted by draftsmen in the State Solicitor's office. Naturally enough, I have to take their legal advice on the issue that has been raised here today. Many people, particularly in the climate of this country over recent years, have found themselves in very serious situations. Some of it has not been of their own doing. I certainly would not like to see anybody being debarred from any State board. When I was bringing this legislation through, I was even unhappy about making a distinction by putting an accountant and a legal adviser on the board. I decided to do that because I believe somebody on a board should have some kind of qualifications in legalities. This is necessary to stop the Irish Sports Council and other bodies from finding themselves in court every single day in relation to the way their organisations are being run. That is why I want an accountant to be one of the people on the board. I am doing that to make sure there are people on the board who can deal with delicate financial situations that may develop. I have to accept what our people say. At the same time, something has been raised here today and I need to look at it. I am prepared to look at it.