Taoiseach's Larkin consumer nomination upsets Green Party
The Taoiseach nominated his ex-partner to the board of the new National Consumer Agency six weeks after the other 12 members had been appointed, it was reported today.
Reports this morning said the original 12 members were appointed in June, but Celia Larkin's inclusion was only added to the list two weeks ago.
Bertie Ahern had reportedly been asked to provide a nominee by mid-May, but took six weeks before deciding to put forward his ex-partner for the job.
This morning's reports also said Tánaiste Mary Harney had been consulted about the initial 12 names and had approved them but was not involved in Ms Larkin's appointment, although neither was she opposed to it.
The opposition, however, has accused Mr Ahern of blatant cronyism in relation to the matter, with the Green Party saying people should be appointed to state boards on the basis of "what they know, not who they know".
