Jerry Cowley (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 215: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if adequate representation will be provided for the people of Tourmakeady by the use of his nominating rights to nominate a representative for the Tourmakeady area; his views on whether the area urgently needs proper representatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11491/05]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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Prior to 1999, the board of Údarás na Gaeltachta consisted of 13 people, seven of whom were elected from three constituencies. Three of these were elected from the Mayo, Galway and Meath Gaeltacht. In 1999, the board was expanded to consist of 20 people, including 17 elected members.

Section 15 of Údarás na Gaeltachta (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 1999 provides for the election of two persons to the board of Údarás na Gaeltachta for the area comprising those parts of the Gaeltacht situated in County Mayo, including Tuar Mhic Éadaigh. As well as serving on the board of Údarás, they also serve on the regional committee for the area comprising those parts of the Gaeltacht situated in Counties Mayo, Galway and Meath. The function of the regional committee is, inter alia, to provide an effective decision-making structure that takes cognisance of local development needs. I believe the Mayo Gaeltacht has been and remains well served by its board members and also by the rest of the board, with particular reference to those members representing the Galway, Mayo and Meath Gaeltacht that are on the regional committee.

In accordance with existing legislation, I will shortly nominate the chairperson and two members to the board of Údarás. I am sure that the Deputy will agree that, when choosing nominees, it is incumbent on me to take into consideration the overall development needs of the Gaeltacht.