Bobby Aylward (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)

After I prepared so well, the Acting Chairman is being hard. I welcome the broad thrust and sentiments of the Charities Bill. It is generally recognised that the many positive features of the proposed legislation will have significant bearing on the numerous people involved in valuable charity work. The effect of the draft legislation is important to the public, which contributes generously to many charitable causes year in, year out.

The intent is to introduce a comprehensive reform of the law as it relates to charities to ensure proper accountability, to protect against possible abuses of charity status and to eliminate the possibility of fraud. I endorse the Bill's principles because its provisions will enhance public confidence in an important area of activity. The application of appropriate transparency and regulation will ensure improved public trust and the establishment of a sound legal and regulatory framework to facilitate the smooth and efficient administration and management of charitable organisations.

It is widely accepted that any practical measure to enforce proper oversight and encourage active compliance is constructive. This timely legislation will support the charity sector and assist in promoting its aims. It will foster increased public trust——

See this speech in context