Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

We should all welcome the opportunity to contribute to Bills that touch on something central to Irish life and which improve the quality of life of our people. Irish charities have contributed a great deal throughout our history and their role is no less important today. Many volunteers give of their time and income to charities and this should be encouraged above all else. The legislation should mean people can contribute in a safe and fuss free manner. We want charities to be as professional as possible but it is crucial that giving to charities does not become bogged down in paperwork and bureaucracy. I am extremely concerned because when a new body or agency is established, it usually leads to more paperwork. By its nature, involvement in charities means people give of their time voluntarily at nights and weekends. It is important that, while checks and balances are needed, the legislation ensures the need for paperwork and bureaucracy is kept to a minimum. Many changes introduced by legislation in the past have resulted in additional form filling and work. When the Bill proceeds through its final Stages, I appeal for the bureaucracy and form filling to be kept to a minimum. Otherwise, our work today and in coming weeks on this legislation will be of little use.

There is some concern that the Bill will merely serve to set up yet another quango. I would like more assurance from the Government that this will not be the case. It is important that this House does not allow a quango to be established in this instance. Unlike so many other State agencies, the charities regulatory authority should not be based in Dublin but elsewhere in the State. Decentralisation is something we have all welcomed and supported, although we had hoped it would progress at a faster rate.

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