Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I believe I have answered Senator Craughwell's question about PPP schools. He also asked me about IT costs. We will publish the digital strategy very shortly. That will look at the area of IT and how best to spend the money there in order to keep up with changing hardware, software, etc., in that area.

Senator Moloney asked about school meals and the DEIS review that I just mentioned; I hope that answers that bit of her question. Responsibility for funding of school meals lies with the Department of Social Protection. I know of some very good models where community organisations get involved; there are many good models around the country. The interdepartmental group involved in the DEIS review includes officials from the Departments of Social Protection, and Children and Youth Affairs. Responsibility for school completion lies with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, and responsibility for school meals and other things lies with the Department of Social Protection. That will be an opportunity for a little more co-operation across Departments to get the best possible outcome for our children. School meals will also come into that discussion.

I believe I answered the question on broadband. I was asked about the miscellaneous area and the headings about secondments and overpayments, etc. That comes under appropriations-in-aid, money that comes in. This would include, for example, where the full amount of a grant was not spent. We have to account for money that comes back into the Department as well as money that we spend. That explains that subhead.