Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I refer the Senator to subsection (f), which reads: "ensure, having regard to net expenditure limits determined under section 45, the integrity of the Agency's accounting and financial reporting systems [surely this includes the reporting of key decisions taken in the course of the agency's work], including the independent audit, and that appropriate systems of control are in place, in particular, systems for risk management, financial and operational control, and compliance with the law and relevant standards." This subsection encompasses the Senator's points. The board can delegate to the CEO any of the agency's functions with the exception of the functions of the board under subsection (2).

I also refer the Senator to subsection (d), which reads: "promote high standards of corporate governance with particular regard to a code of conduct issued under section 37." I refer the Senator to the direction that the Minister can give to the board if particular issues arise. The matters could then be referred to the CEO.

The board is the governing body of the agency. This Bill goes further than a great deal of legislation in terms of governance, performance management and reporting arrangements to the Minister. The system is clearly spelled out in a way that has not been seen in other legislation. It is strong from a governance point of view. The issues raised by the Senator are covered by the provisions on the board's role, which can be supplemented by directions from the Minister where necessary.