Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The number of consultants employed by the Department of the Taoiseach is kept to a minimum and when it happens, the process is strictly in accordance with guidelines and proper regulations. QTS Consulting was engaged in 2010 following a competitive tender to carry out a risk assessment and review of the Department's health and safety statement, which is a requirement for all Departments. Section 20 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 requires the Department to have in place a written safety statement based on the identification of hazards and risk assessments carried out in the workplace. The reason is that while one may have competent internal personnel, in any Department having an objective outside independent view on the importance of a written statement on health and safety in the workplace is in the interests of all employees. That was the reason a competitive tender was sought and the consultants were appointed.

The Minister for Health, Deputy James Reilly, has employed several specialists on specific contracts because of their expertise. The Deputy should raise the point with him about consultants being involved in tax evasion or making recommendations. The subject requires a more detailed response in a Topical Issue Debate or to a priority question tabled to the Minister.

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