Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy. I have looked into this matter. In the context of the horrific situation in Ukraine, there has been a need to seek information in relation to transparency around funding. There have been some parliamentary questions tabled to me that required me to go to institutions to seek data I do not have on that situation and the need for Russia to experience significant sanctions and isolation. I have recent experience of the importance of being able to seek data from institutions.

I have checked that in the existing provisions for data collection specified in the legislation there is a category relating to financial data. I am advised that these amendments appear to be covered by the subsection on financial data. If it is deemed necessary to collect the data, that can be done under the heading of financial data and prescribed by the Minister of the day in consultation with the HEA.

This is another instance where I am not in a position to accept the amendments, but I can engage with the Deputy and seek to expand what I have said between now and Report Stage in order to see if that provides assurance.