PROPOSALS TO reform the system of appointments to State boards are welcome and long overdue. A new approach may help to invigorate the commercial sector and drive job creation in the coming years. Because of past abuses, however, the public would be justified in thinking the reforms do not go far enough. Too much political wriggle-room remains in proposals that were brought to Cabinet by Minister for Public Expenditure Brendan Howlin and candidates for these positions may still be favoured on the basis of “who” rather than “what” they know.
It may not be possible to put a stop to political patronage and improper private-sector influence. But recent harsh experiences have brought home the necessity attempting to tackle those areas by imposing clear limits and strict controls. The task of rebuilding the economy should go hand-in-hand with greater political transparency and a recognition of talent.
There are two aspects to Mr Howlin’s proposals, one more reassuring than the other. In future, nominees as chairmen of State boards will have to go before a Dáil committee and display their knowledge and ability for the position. Hearings will be in public and while the minister’s nominee cannot be rejected, a process of examination should favour the choice of quality candidates. It may also limit the practice of individuals being appointed to a large number of boards. By contrast, proposals for the appointment of ordinary board members are seriously flawed. The fact that members of the public will be invited to apply for these positions by the department concerned is a positive development. But ministers will not be obliged to choose from these panels and may go elsewhere for their nominees. In addition, board membership will not be open to scrutiny by Dáil committees. This half-hearted effort at reform requires serious revision.
The last government rewarded Independent TDs for their support by allowing them to nominate friends to State boards. And its ministers engaged in a flurry of last-minute appointments before leaving office. That kind of political jobbery has no place in a healthy society. In opposition, Fine Gael and the Labour Party promised greater transparency in how State agencies are run. That will involve the questioning of chief executives by Dáil committees. The role and composition of State boards is equally important. Ending blatant political jobbery there and appointing individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills are necessary first steps.