Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I compliment the Cathaoirleach and the team on the wonderful events held yesterday to mark the centenary of the Seanad's first sitting. It was a tremendous success. There was a good representation of former Members and they certainly enjoyed the occasion. I compliment the Cathaoirleach on the initiative, all those involved in the Houses of the Oireachtas and the Seanad team here. I note that Deputy Clarke asked the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, in the Dáil on 2 June whether he was satisfied with staff appointments in Inland Fisheries Ireland, IFI, and the methods of interview used. The Deputy got the usual response from the Minister's officials, in that the matter had nothing to do with them and was for IFI. It is this type of evasion and obfuscation that forces us to speak under privilege in the Chamber on issues of concern. I have a document - many others, particularly in Galway and Mayo, also have it - that was sent to officials in the Department. It shows that the Minister and the board of IFI should not and could not be satisfied with the way in which at least one senior appointment was made, although I believe there were others. I know that the Department has had this document for some time. It contains a number of text messages as well as emails to and from private email addresses relating to this senior appointment. There is documented evidence of skullduggery and manipulation of the highest order. It is inconceivable that the person involved could still be allowed to preside over further appointments. Staff members of IFI would have a legitimate expectation that, if they worked hard, did their work and involved themselves in professional development, training, etc., they would get promotions up the ladder if they sought them. I am afraid, however, that any employee who reads this document could not have any trust or confidence in the current appointment process. I am not saying it was always thus, but it is certainly the case at the moment.

The Bradley report expressed confidence in the board of IFI. I am putting the board members on notice that they will be required to step up to the plate, show that the confidence placed in them by the report is merited, and discharge their responsibilities relating to this and other serious matters outlined in this and other documents.

I have made several contributions in the Seanad calling for an inquiry into the workings of the IFI organisation. I am still calling for such an inquiry. There is further compelling evidence in this document to support my call. However, the matter of the appointment to jobs is for the board alone, as it relates to the actions of the chief executive officer, who is answerable to the board. Will the Deputy Leader contact the board and chair of IFI and ask them to do their job and investigate the issues that are in their hands?