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

In light of the conversation I had with the board, I believe it is honest and that its ambition and intention is to make the necessary changes. I know from its description of the processes that the putting in place of the necessary reforms is dependent on a number of factors and people. As the Deputy is aware, subsequent to my meeting with the board, a number of board members agreed to stand aside until such time as the process of investigation is completed. I believe this demonstrates the understanding of the board of the seriousness of this matter from my perspective. The board knows that it needs to get this right and I agree that the stepping aside of the chief scout and others was the right thing to do.

On contingency plans, the organisation has moneys available to enable it to continue operating. My Department is not the only Department from which it receives funding. As I said, the board indicated to me that it has reserves. It is the responsibility of the board to ensure that funding and resources are made available to Scouting Ireland to enable it to carry out its great work.

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