Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

My first question relates to something that comes up in almost all of the budgets. The appropriations-in-aid figure is projected to be €9.1 million. This is set off against expenditure. What does that category account for with regard to the Prison Service?

I noticed in the previous budget a certain amount in all Votes was set aside for audit. An audit company would come in to check to ensure there was adequate spending of public money. I am especially concerned about the Prison Service. In the past we have had issues. I know inquiries have been made, especially in regard to the mess committee in the prisons and how moneys were used. There were questions around all of that. I am keen to know whether further inquiries have been made in this regard. What is happening in respect of the particular issues raised in public some two years ago at this stage? I understand some of the allocation relates to ongoing inquires. Is a conclusion to that expected any time soon? It is a serious issue. It relates to public money and it needs to be accounted for.