Sean Barrett (Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Minister used the word "retrograde", but it would be progressive to provide for those who actually do the work on the ground, as the Minister has said, to attend board meetings. As the Minister was speaking, I was reminded that I sat on a board at Trinity College before I was elected to this House. The people who gave the lectures were there as board members. It worked very well, although there were complaints that it was like a mini parliament. Maybe it was training for people like the Minister and me who wanted to come up to Leinster House. I do not know whether this falls into the category of ministerial advice. I suggest it would be crazy to allow a meeting to go ahead while the harbour master is left outside. I do not know what this means for the role of directors, etc.

We need to listen to men and women who know their stuff. I am sure the Minister found when he was going up and down the country that they are great characters. They know everything about ports. Their expertise is invaluable. Under a previous system, they may have been regarded as workers who were not worthy of being on the board or attending at the board. As it progresses, Ireland should examine how to learn from those who know so much. We should do away with the old idea that the harbour master should be outside the door with his cap in his hand, unable to come in until he is invited to do so. We need to avail of all the wisdom that is available. Many reforms of this nature are needed in this country. The Minister and I are on exactly the same page on this one spiritually and temperamentally. This has been a fine discussion. I will not pursue this amendment. The Minister is aware that the Seanad agrees with him on the need to avail of expertise. Nobody should be left out as we try to continue the reform of this country. In this case, we should not leave the harbour masters out.