Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

As for the amount being huge, initially, some major payments were made. Subsequently, the fund was extended from financial institutions to encompass insurance companies, An Post and similar bodies. Hence, there were some very significant once-off inflows. In future, the amount of money accruing to the fund may not be so dramatic. I believe more people will reclaim their moneys as the accounts in question will only have become dormant recently and will not extend back 40 years. Perhaps €30 million to €40 million will accrue per year, with approximately €20 million flowing out on an ongoing basis. However, it will take a year or two before accurate figures in this regard can be compiled.

While the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs is the lead Department, every decision regarding dormant accounts now goes before the Cabinet. In respect of the €60 million plan announced earlier this year, the €24 million allocated under economic and social disadvantage falls mainly under the aegis of this Department. A further €18 million was allocated under educational disadvantage and €18 million under disabilities, which is the responsibility of the Department of Health and Children.

However, all applications go before the Cabinet. The Deputy will have noted the various schemes announced by the Department during the year, all of which go before the Government when they are being independently assessed. One of the questions concerned the plan for next year, which will be approved by the Government. The individual sums of money go into the Votes of different Departments. While some of it goes to this Department, money for educational or disability-related projects would be transferred to a different Department's Vote. The Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs is the lead Department and takes the proposals to the Cabinet. However, everything is agreed at that level.

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