Joe O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I echo the Deputy's sentiments, thanks and acknowledgement of the work of trustees. With this Bill coming forward, we are seeking to create an environment where trustees feel assured as they are carrying our their duties and where people are willing and confident to volunteer to become trustees in the first instance. It will further enhance and empower both existing and potential trustees by giving greater clarity in respect of roles and responsibilities. In many cases, the Bill will ease the administrative burden on smaller charities. The general scheme contains a number of amendments related to charity trustee duties. It is very important to distinguish and clarify that these are not new or additional duties. They are a statement of the duties to which charity trustees are already subject under common law. By including them in statute, the regulator can raise awareness among charity trustees and achieve greater compliance by reference to the law. In the week that it is, I acknowledge and thank all the trustees across the country for their work, which often goes unacknowledged and unseen.

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