Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. He was very clear about the need for the broad level of representation. Given the experience of certain people sitting on State boards, there is a reluctance on the part of some of the best people at present to sit on these boards. It is important, therefore, that we encourage the best people to apply.

I also welcome the fact that the Minister said we should encourage people in this regard. It is an element of good citizenship. One thing I should note is that, unlike in much other legislation, people are not being excluded from applying to be a member of this board by virtue of being members of local authorities. This is welcome. I can understand why Oireachtas Members would be excluded, but many people serving as members of local authorities have extensive experience of research and innovation and could apply and make very good members of this board. I welcome the fact that in this legislation, therefore, unlike in so many other Bills, local authority members are not excluded.