Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 91: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the procedures for the appointment of a new chief executive of FÁS; when she expects the process to be completed and the appointment made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44894/08]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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Under the terms of the Labour Services Act, 1987, the Director General of FÁS is appointed by An Foras, with the consent of the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

Last week I approved a proposal by the Board of FÁS for the appointment of Mr. Eddie Sullivan to the post of Director General on an interim basis for a period of up to six months. Mr. Sullivan is a former Secretary General (Public Service Management and Development) at the Department of Finance. This will allow FÁS to continue to deliver on its core mandate, given the employment and training challenges currently facing the country.

Given the important and valuable role that FÁS is playing in the context of the very serious challenge that faces the Irish labour market it is important that this post be filled on a permanent basis as expeditiously as possible. My Department and the Chair and Board of FÁS are working together closely on this matter. I have made clear my interest in having the position filled as quickly and as effectively as possible so that FÁS can continue to address the situation affecting redundant apprentices, training for those unemployed, providing supports for people with disabilities, upskilling the workforce and the continued operation of the Community Employment Schemes. In this regard I wish to acknowledge the ongoing commitment of the staff of FÁS in delivering these services.