Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

On the first point, our approach was not exceptional. It was part of the normal process of reviews and control mechanisms constantly being implemented by the Department with regard to various schemes. It was presented by some elements in the media as if it was something new and special and as if it had been triggered by something specific, but that is not the case. The Department does this consistently and constantly across a range of measures. It just happened that on this occasion we were considering this aspect of it. It was not done on the basis of any belief that there was large-scale fraud taking place, but as part of our control mechanisms. Where there is significant taxpayers' money involved, we want to be able to verify the spending, including from our own perspective.

The swipe cards are being rolled out currently. I do not have any details with regard to overseas recipients because not all recipients in Ireland are yet on the swipe card system, but we will achieve that down the road. It is a system that could work. The basis of certification and verification is strong and detailed. Given that swipe cards are used to access funds from banks, the bank controls within the card for its use are specific and difficult to misuse. Therefore, the use of swipe cards would enhance our security systems, particularly for those who are abroad.

The irony of my position this afternoon is that Deputies constantly make representations to me with regard to how hard the Department is on individuals, how it makes black and white decisions and how it is not generous or flexible when it comes to accepting people on schemes. The complaint is that the Department takes a very thorough view. The complaint I receive most often from colleagues is that the Department is very strict. It is interesting, therefore, that the questions being asked today suggest the Department is not strict enough. I believe the Department is vigilant and that it acts in the best interest of all taxpayers and protects the resources being paid out.

See this speech in context