Ms Rosarii Mannion:

I thank the Deputy. I totally agree with the point he makes and it is something I have observed myself at first hand. The Deputy will also be glad to know it is something that has been picked up on that periodic critical review. We have improved, and the feedback is that we have improved, on reducing the levels of bureaucracy but we can always do more. My commitment, working with the executive team, is that we are going to reduce those levels of bureaucracy, where we can, while at the same time holding that fine balance so we do not minimise or interrupt any standards of governance or accountability whereby we will be held to account. There is a fine balance there. We can do more and we will do more. At no point should it be prohibitive for a local voluntary organisation working on the ground with communities to enhance social inclusion, community development and all the things I have spoken about in my opening statement. At no point should our processes or systems be prohibitive to people in terms of engaging with funding. It will be a key priority, perhaps the key priority, in the new strategic plan, and one that we will show form on and improve on. I can give the Deputy that assurance.