Madam, - The debate about the merits, or otherwise, of Celia Larkin's appointment to the interim board of the new National Consumer Agency, while inevitably focused on the personalities involved, raises wider issues about the nature and motivation of such appointments to State boards or the boards of quasi-governmental agencies
In many modern democracies, including the US, there is a system of vetting such appointments, up to and including confirmation hearings before the US Senate. There would be significant merit in having a permanent cross-party committee of the Houses of the Oireachtas to perform such an oversight function here.
Obviously governments need some right of initiative in picking the personnel to key instruments of the State. However there are corresponding responsibilities also. Citizens, who are also taxpayers and consumers, have a right to know that their money is being spent prudently and that their interests are being protected by those who are best equipped with the relevant experience and qualifications. This right is not properly protected at present.
Even the very hint of jobbery or corruption can destroy public confidence in politics, especially among my already cynical young peer group. We have had more than a hint of "jobs for the boys" in this country and it has done us no good. - Yours, etc,
SEAN McKIERNAN (Jnr), Virginia Road, Bailieborough, Co Cavan.
Madam, - Fianna Fáil leaders have consistently insulted our intelligence with their excuses regarding various recent scandals. But appointing Celia Larkin to the board of the National Consumer Agency? Now they mock us. - Yours, etc,
DAVID JOYCE, Seabury Parade, Malahide, Co Dublin.