Eoghan Murphy (Dublin South East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I understand that, but I wrote to this committee on 10 September asking that we review the business cases for the allowances. As the information had been compiled, it would have been an interesting exercise to undertake and the committee would have learned a great deal. Such a review had not been performed previously. The information would have provided transparency as to how such matters operate in the public sector.

The explanation for the forklift allowance might be the best in the world and retaining it might be justified. As it dates back to the 1950s, I am sure that Mr. Watt will find something in the file explaining why it was granted. However, a thorough business case for retaining it was requested. In answer to the first paragraph, which asks what the employer receives in return for the allowance, the answer is "Driving a forklift". The other questions of whether the allowance is cost effective and represents value for money are not answered. This is not a business case. I have made this point previously. Like Mr. Watt, I am interested in the details. The Minister is also interested, as we have discussed the issue.