Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I take the point the Deputy is making. When we read this in isolation it can sound a little stark. As the Deputy alludes to, it is a standard provision at the Committee of Public Accounts. From my memory of my days on the committee, at the beginning of every meeting this exact wording is articulated. It is a standard provision. We should not disrupt lines of accountability with regard to the Oireachtas on policy matters. I am accountable to the Oireachtas on policy and nobody else is. The line of accountability is between the Minister and the Oireachtas. The Accounting Officer is accountable to the Committee of Public Accounts with regard to his or her duties. It is a standard provision for State agencies. I am told it is not something in any way specific to the CEO of the HEA and nor is it meant to be. It is a standard provision that is replicated across State agencies.