Diversity and standards in public appointments
The government believes that the boards of public bodies should make the best use of all available talent and more closely reflect today's society.
Selection
The application process will vary according to the post. A major national public appointment attracting many candidates, will have a more complicated process than a specialist post on a small advisory body.
Selection is based on merit and the selection procedures:
- must be fair, open and transparent
- should recognise non-traditional career patterns
- encourage a wide field of candidates from a broad range of backgrounds and relevant experiences
Diversity
The government is committed to addressing the under-representation of some groups on the boards of public bodies. These include:
- women
- people from ethnic minority backgrounds
- people with disabilities
Applications for public appointments are welcome from all sections of society. The Public Bodies and Appointments Annual Report, published by the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister (OFMDFM) provides a breakdown of the diversity of public appointees in Northern Ireland.
Qualities of a public appointee
Ministers expect that the conduct of those they appoint to serve on the boards of public bodies will be above reproach. Public appointees are expected to uphold the following seven principles of public life.
Selflessness
Holders of public office should take decisions for public interest. They should not make decisions to get financial or other material benefits for themselves, their family, or their friends.
Integrity
Holders of public office should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might influence them in the performance of their official duties.
Objectivity
In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending people for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merits.
Accountability
Holders of public office are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office.
Openness
Holders of public office should be as open as possible about all the decisions and actions that they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands.
Honesty
Holders of public office have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest.
Leadership
Holders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.
The Commissioner for Public Appointments
There is an independent Commissioner for Public Appointments who regulates, monitors and reports on public appointments procedures in Northern Ireland. The Commissioner specifies that appointments must be made on merit and that care must be taken at every stage not to discriminate on any grounds.
You can visit the website of the Commissioner for Public Appointments Northern Ireland (CPANI) to find out more about their work.
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