Strong sense of ethics needed for position on board

Irish Water’s board members must have a strong sense of "ethics and integrity," excellent communication skills and senior experience working with more than 1,000 employees.

The new overseers of the embattled semi-state company must also have a “sound business judgment” and an “understanding of good governance practices”.

The qualifications and attributes are included in advertisement for the posts placed by Ervia, the parent company of Irish Water.

Irish Water has come in for criticism in recent months for its botched communications strategy, its bonus-driven culture, and demanding that customers hand over their PPS numbers.

Environment Minister Alan Kelly said this week that changes to the charging regime would be accompanied by an overhaul of Irish Water’s board, which will be combined with Ervia.

The annual pay for the new non-executive board members will be €15,750, in line with the previous rates which includes attending three to four board meetings per month.

Four vacancies are being filled on the Ervia board. The new board will take full control of Irish Water.

Candidates for the positions are asked to have senior level experience in the water utility sector with an international focus, or a senior post in an organisation with more than 1,000 employees. The appointments will be for a period of up to five years.

Applicants to the board must also confirm they do not have any conflicts of interest.

After much criticism of Irish Water, the Government is also setting up a public forum to advise the company on service expectations and to give the company feedback on investment priorities.