Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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559. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the gender quota targets for the boards of State bodies and agencies under their remit; the level reached to date; and their future plans to meet and maintain the targets. [32754/14]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Since May 2011, expressions of interest are invited from persons interested in being appointed to the boards of State Bodies under the aegis of my Department. In making board appointments, I am not necessarily confined to those who make such expressions of interest but ensure that all of those appointed have the relevant mix of knowledge and expertise to contribute to the relevant board.

While the percentage of females on these Boards falls below the target of 40%, in the case of the Aquaculture Licensing Appeals Board, Bord Bia, Teagasc, National Milk Agency, Veterinary Council of Ireland and Horse Racing Ireland board appointments, while made by me, are not at my sole discretion in that individuals are nominated for appointment by me as specified in the relevant statute.

The information sought by the Deputy is outlined in the table below as at 17 July 2014.