Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)

There is a basic issue in this regard. The fact the State has any major role in terms of the Irish Red Cross relates to the fact the relevant statutory instruments come from the period just before the Second World War, when there was the threat of invasion, bombing and mass casualties. My view is that the role of the State should be reduced. However, in the context of what the Minister has to deal with, where he can make a positive input into the future of the organisation is in regard to governance as per the legislation which he may or may not feel is appropriate.

I realise this is all new to the Minister and that he has inherited this issue. I absolutely share his view that the Irish Red Cross is a very important organisation and there needs to be an end to all of the current adverse publicity. I ask that the Minister would consider the idea of the organisation being much more independent of Government, that he would consider a modern governance structure and, most of all, that the issue be dealt with rapidly so this very important national organisation, which has done a great deal of good, can get on with its primary work, serve the community and be involved in important projects abroad. This would ensure a period of negativity is brought to an end.

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