Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not have the information on who is on the interview panel to hand. I am sure when the Minister brings the memorandum to Cabinet, matters about that will become clear.

I do not know who is running. I hope there will be women with the relevant qualifications from here and further afield who would be interested in the job. I do not agree with the Senator, however, about proven clinical experience. It is important that whoever gets the job understands the ins and outs of the medical profession, whether it is in hospitals, primary care centres and across the HSE. Such a connection will be important.

I do not have the exact date as to when the board will be in place. I know the Minister for Health is anxious to proceed to ensure when the incumbent, Tony O'Brien, leaves his post, his replacement will fit into the vacancy as soon as possible. I will ask departmental officials to come back to the Senator on some of the matters she raised.