Shay Brennan (Dublin Rathdown, Fianna Fail)

I appreciate the opportunity to speak on the Supplementary Estimates before the House today for the Department of Taoiseach and the Office of the Chief State Solicitor. I understand that these proposals are not about allocating new funds for fresh initiatives or discretionary spending. Instead, they represent essential expenditures that arise from legal obligations. These obligations come from decisions taken by independent bodies that operate beyond the direct control or influence of the Government. Specifically, the Supplementary Estimate for Vote 2 amounts to just shy of €3.4 million and is required to reimburse the National Treasury Management Agency for third party costs arising from tribunals of inquiry and the NAMA commission of investigation. These sums reflect assessments made independently and the Government must meet these costs in full. Additionally, a technical adjustment of €1,000 is sought for Vote 6, the Office of the Chief State Solicitor. I am satisfied that this technical provision allows that office to work with its budget lines to effectively manage surpluses and deficits.

The Department of the Taoiseach plays a critical role in supporting the Taoiseach and the Government. It ensures co-ordinated Government activity, delivers impartial policy advice and oversees tribunals and commissions of investigation. It provides transparency and accountability, which are vital to maintaining public trust. Equally important is that these tribunals and commissions function independently of Government, to preserve their integrity and their credibility. Independence, however, means the Department cannot predict or control when needed costs will arise, or indeed their magnitude. These are statutory obligations that must be honoured. They are laid out under the Commissions of Investigation Act and backed by resolutions of this House. Failure to fund these costs would undermine our system of inquiries. I believe supporting these Supplementary Estimates is essential to uphold the integrity of our investigative process, ensure the State meets its legal commitments and to maintaining public confidence and the administration of justice.

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