Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Horkan mentioned the ongoing negotiations between the Government and the ASTI. The talks lasted into the night and continued early into the morning. All of us would welcome a conclusion of talks, including the students seated in the Visitors Gallery. I apologise to Senator Warfield, as I missed his remarks last week in my reply to the appointments to the board of IMMA. Knowing the Minister and knowing personally some of the people appointed, both men and women, they are people of the highest quality. We are all about appointing people with competence to boards, and in particular if there are women who can be appointed it is important to do so, not because of their gender but because of their competency and ability. I thank the Senator for raising the issue.

He also raised the Bill on extending the franchise to young people aged 16 and 17. If I am correct it is due to be taken during Private Members' time this week.