The former chairman of the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)has told The Irish Times that four approaches, including one from a very senior political figure, were made to her by people who suggested that the appointment of Dr Brian Kennedy as director of the museum would be unacceptable to the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands, Ms de Valera.
Another former IMMA board member, the Progressive Democrats councillor Ms Fiona O'Malley, also told The Irish Times she received a similar approach "through political channels".
Dr Kennedy, who is director of the National Gallery of Australia, was offered the post of director of IMMA on November 26th, but then declined the offer in controversial circumstances.
Ms de Valera told the Dβil last week she had "no legal function in the matter of the selection of the director of IMMA" and categorically denied that "there was any interference by me" in the matter of Dr Kennedy's prospective appointment.
Yesterday, a spokesman for Ms de Valera reiterated to The Irish Times that she did not communicate any views to anyone on the suitability of any candidate for the IMMA post.
"In fact," the spokesman added, "she could not have done so as she was unaware of who the candidates were."
The former chairman of IMMA, Ms Marie Donnelly, has confirmed to The Irish Times that while the Minister did not contact her at all in relation to the possible appointment of Dr Kennedy, four approaches were made by people purporting to communicate the Minister's views.
