Mr. Eamonn Waters:

There is a protocol and a financial governance system in place between the Department and all of the regional authorities responsible for homelessness. They are required to submit quarterly performance reports and quarterly financial reports, and these reports are certified by the head of finance and the head of housing in each region. They are published. We are satisfied the financial governance and oversight arrangements are appropriate and effective. Responsibility for procurement of services resides with each local authority responsible and they are required to comply with the public spending code and the various Departments of Public Expenditure and Reform circulars which are applicable.