Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail)
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957. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her plans to hold elections for appointment to the board of Údarás na Gaeltachta; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30265/18]

Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will be aware that earlier this year I announced the new board of Údarás na Gaeltachta. The new board was appointed for a 5-year period to January 2023.

In accordance with the provisions of the Gaeltacht Act 2012, certain members were appointed to the board on foot of nominations by County Councils that have a Gaeltacht area within their jurisdictions. The other appointments, including the reappointment of the Chairperson, were made following the results of a process overseen by the Public Appointments Service whereby applications were sought from the public to be considered for appointment.

I am confident that with the ability and the wide range of experience and skills held by the newly appointed board, the work of the board over the coming five years will greatly benefit both An tÚdarás and the Gaeltacht in general.

Consequently I see no reason to reintroduce an expensive election process in the case of Údarás na Gaeltachta.