Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Different work may be allocated to different people, whether to the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Garda Síochána or whoever. The important thing is that it is effectively and efficiently done. In fairness, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, working within the budgets it has - all budgets are finite - has been able to increase the number of front line staff as a result of reorganisations that have taken place. That is to be commended.

I understand there was a higher level of case activity in 2009 than in the previous year. The 2010 Estimate includes additional funding to meet some demand-led pressures in regard to an increase in the size of awards, etc. Whatever the perception may be, I relay to the House the information I have from the supplementary briefing material on the question.

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