Ms Máire Killoran:

I preface my comments at the outset by saying that Údarás is an independent statutory agency with its own independent board, which takes its own decisions. The role of the Department is in terms of oversight and ensuring that Údarás is in compliance with corporate governance procedures and makes investments in accordance with its statutory functions under the Gaeltacht Act 2012. In terms of the procedure undertaken specifically in regard to Arramara, the history to it briefly was that a decision was taken by the board on 1 March 2013, subject to ministerial approval being obtained and legal details being agreed. The Department assessed the proposal, legal advice was received and, ultimately, approval for the sale was granted by the Minister of State in the Department and by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform in July 2013. The Department is advised that the sale was ultimately completed in May 2014 and that Údarás is satisfied the conditions laid down have been fully complied with.