Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Let me start with the Deputy's last question because I appreciate where it is coming from. I am committed to and appreciate the work of the thousands of volunteers in Scouting Ireland. There is no question about that. Every action that I have taken in regard to this issue is because of my deep respect for them and my desire to ensure that they can continue to have an organisation that they are proud of and that can work in the best possible manner in terms of that ethos of volunteerism. I deeply appreciate the work that all of them are doing.

In regard to the Deputy's first question about whether I am assured by the processes in which Scouting Ireland is engaged to reform its governance matters, we had a meeting at which we had a lengthy conversation. I had numerous questions which were able to be answered at that time but much work needs to be done and action taken.

In that regard, I would also like to inform the House that I have asked Jillian van Turnhout, as an independent expert, to examine the situation over the coming weeks. In accordance with her terms of reference, she is being asked to provide me with a clear assessment of the adequacy of Scouting Ireland's governance arrangements and to advise me on whether I can be assured about Scouting Ireland's governance and related matters. As that comes in, I have also engaged another expert to work with me to ensure that what changes happen are in the best interests of reforming Scouting Ireland, particularly in regard to its governance.

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