Ossian Smyth (Dún Laoghaire, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I completely agree. The Minister has asked IFI to refocus the organisation to protect habitats. The recent controversies have slowed the progress of this change in focus. The Minister is also very disappointed that this change of direction has not yet happened. He has spoken of how IFI needs to be a primary guardian of our waterways to improve habitats for fish and, thereafter, a sustainable rural economy based on pristine waters and high-value tourism.

To respond to Senator Dolan, the Public Appointments Service has already been asked to recruit and has started the process. The new board will need to be in place as soon as possible but subsequent to the completion of the review by the two retired civil servants.

I can tell from all the contributions that this is a very frustrating, difficult and long-running issue. As Members will understand, it is the subject of a number of inquires and protected disclosures. We have to follow due process. I cannot interfere in that process but I know there are significant resources, focus and attention on that. I am happy to keep Senators informed as we move through that process and also to speak to former board members and anyone else involved to get the proper picture.