Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

The review group was given a broad remit to present from its perspective the best possible option. My duty as Minister is to ensure there are reasonable resources in place for what is established. I cannot pre-empt the decisions the group may make. While I was concerned previously that the Irish Human Rights Alliance was under-resourced, in particular during recent years, substantial resources were made available to the Equality Authority. It is hoped that in having one body there will be an economy of scale, which will provide not alone for its application of powers and objectives but will allow the work to be done at a lesser cost.

In response to the Deputy's question, no financial sum was stated to the review group although it will be conscious of how much money was made available this year and last year to both agencies. My budget for 2012 is not substantially greater than it was for 2011. However, it is not less than what was available for the two agencies, which is to be welcomed. The Government takes seriously its commitment to provide an enhanced independent equality commission to replace the Irish Human Rights Alliance and Equality Authority.

I look forward to receiving the report of the group, which comprises good people whom I know devoted substantial time to their deliberations. I also look forward to the input of that report into the development of the necessary legislation.

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