Áine Collins (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the opportunity to speak on the Charities (Amendment) Bill. With all the recent disclosures regarding certain charities, we are in general agreement in the House that drastic and urgent action is needed. I do not want to get into any detail on particular cases right now. I am a member of the Committee of Public Accounts and assure Members that the committee will continue with its investigations. Its reports will be submitted to the House as quickly as possible. Irrespective of what action is taken, it is essential that the Oireachtas plays its part in restoring the faith of the public in charitable organisations.

Despite some of the recent revelations, I am quite confident that most charitable organisations in Ireland do excellent work, especially front of house. I include all the work done with children and the disadvantaged in many areas and in a very prudent and effective manner. A considerable number of very genuine people are involved in the agencies. Volunteers give freely of their time and energy to support various charities. Very dedicated staff are providing important services on the ground. These people must not be tarnished by recent controversies.

Many charities have suffered considerable reductions in donations over recent weeks and months. Inevitably, services to vulnerable people will be affected if this continues. There is an onus on all of us to put in place a strong regulatory regime that will help to restore confidence in the sector.

As part of the Charities Act 2009, a new independent charities regulator is to be established. The sections of the Act that could have been commenced in advance of the establishment of the authority have been commenced. The remainder will be commenced following the establishment of the authority. The Minister for Justice and Equality intends to establish the authority as early as possible this year. The Department of Justice and Equality has received sanction for the appointment of an interim chief executive officer and staff. The authority will give us a much-needed increase in transparency and accountability in the charity sector; this is critical. A vibrant charity sector must be trusted and enjoy the confidence of the public. I would examine the accounting and reporting standards for charitable organisations. Currently, they come under the Companies Acts, especially if they are limited by guarantee and are not for profit. This needs to be addressed so there will be more transparency on salaries, directors, etc.

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