Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Independent)
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182. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the action he is taking to encourage more Irish executives to serve on State boards under the remit of his Department; his views on the recent Merc Partners survey; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12459/14]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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In accordance with Government policy, expressions of interest are sought through the Public Appointments Service (PAS) from suitably qualified and experienced persons for consideration for appointment to boards of Bodies operating under the aegis of my Department.

Since March 2011, 27 appointments have been made from members of the public who applied through the PAS process. It should be noted that Board appointments, while made by me as Minister, are not in all cases made at my sole discretion. Individuals may be nominated for appointment by various organisations as specified in the relevant statute of the body concerned.

The Deputy should further note that in making any direct Ministerial appointments, I am not necessarily confined to those who make such expressions of interest but will ensure that all of those appointed have the relevant skills and competencies for the positions.