Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I was asked how many cases have been referred to the Government secretariat under the additional procedures. Six cases coming within the terms of the guidelines have been processed so far. Two of the cases related to the appointment of an arts adviser in the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism. My predecessor approved an appointment in 2005, following appropriate prior consideration by the Secretary General to the Government. When the original post holder resigned, my predecessor approved the appointment of a successor to the post in 2006.

In 2007, a case was noted by my predecessor following consideration by the Secretary General to the Government. It related to an invitation to tender for consultancy work in the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The work involved an examination of the possibility of developing a project that would lead to the establishment of an independent electoral commission. I understand that the candidate concerned was subsequently unsuccessful in the tender competition.

The three other cases which were referred to the Secretary General to the Government were, on consideration by him, found not to fall within the scope of the guidelines and so did not require consideration and approval. The three cases related to the appointment of information technology, public relations and communications consultants.

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