Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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760. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the selection process for the recent three ministerial appointments made to the National Competitiveness Council; the number of applications received to be members of the board; and the number of members that represent small business. [36855/19]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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On 10 May, a call for Expressions of Interest for members to fill a number of vacancies on the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) was advertised on the State Boards website by the Public Appointments Commission (and on my Department's and the NCC websites).

The following criteria were listed as desirable in the call for Expressions of Interest Booklet:

- Demonstrated understanding of the factors that affect the competitiveness of the Irish economy and the policies that can influence productivity levels in the economy

- Experience of effective leadership at a senior level in an applicant’s area of expertise

- Demonstrated understanding of the policy development process

- Critical thinking skills with a proven ability to grasp the detail of a wide range of issues

- Experience of participation on similar committees or groups.

By the closing date on 7 June, 18 applications were received from candidates with diverse backgrounds and with wide-ranging experience.

A selection panel made up by the outgoing Chair of the NCC, a senior official from my Department, and an independent representative was formed. This panel submitted a shortlist from which to appoint new Council members to me. From this shortlist, I appointed three highly qualified people to the Council on 26 June 2019.

Consistent with the Council’s Terms of Refences, representatives from two employer bodies, IBEC and Chambers Ireland, currently serve on the Council. These bodies represent the views of all business (including SMEs and small business).