Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

Second, arising from the internal audit that took place, on my instruction the board was advised to take on board the Department of Finance's regulations. All those actions were taken and the board supported all actions that were necessary in the interim. Yesterday the Cabinet signed off on new legislation regarding the structures of the board. We hope this legislation will be facilitated very quickly in this House, at which stage a new structure will be put in place.

I do not accept there should be any loss of taxpayers' money. That is why the Garda is investigating two matters, one of which is with the Director of Public Prosecutions at this time. Following receipt of the Comptroller and Auditor General's report, on my instruction my Secretary General sent the report to the Garda Commissioner for further examination in case any criminal proceedings are needed.

I agree with one point Deputy Kenny made, namely, that the role of FÁS is paramount in the support and training of people in this country. Every Member of this House is more than complimentary about the work being carried out. This is a grave distraction and disappointment to those people who work on behalf of FÁS who had nothing to do with what happened in the corporate side. However, I am adamant that the work of FÁS, its board and the structures that will be set in place by this House very soon will be fit for purpose, very strategic and focused on the needs of the people here who are unemployed and in need of training.

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