Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State. I must say three things. It is extremely disappointing, despite numerous promises, new dates and deadlines constantly being pushed out, that we are being told there is a difficulty or glitch in the signing off of public accounts for public money by a company whose directors were appointed by the Government. It is very serious. This is about corporate governance, accountability and the public finances. It is exceptionally disappointing, but the Minister of State has nothing to do with what has been stated. I certainly will be pressing in respect of this matter outside the House in the coming days. I will seek further advice because this is an urgent matter.

It is unacceptable that the local authority, which had no hand, act or part in the finances of this company up to its dissolution, now finds itself in a situation where the accounts of a company which it had to take on under legislation have not been dealt with. I will pursue that. In the meantime I ask the Minister of State to consider meeting the executive of the council to tease out what is happening here. That is his call, but I ask him to consider it. In addition, bear in mind that there is a rates issue and a budget issue. This issue will have a huge impact on the rates that will be levied on business in Dún Laoghaire because the chief executive has to be prudent and make provision for bad debt.

There are two issues. It is unacceptable that we cannot see the accounts that were to be laid before this House months ago. It is a serious offence and I ask the Minister of State to look into what sanctions there are or whether we are open to any sanctions. I do not know. I am not asking a smart question, but are there any sanctions?