Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 514: To ask the Minister for Finance the quality proofing measures he has in place to ensure that he, his officials, agents and servants, in carrying out their responsibilities do so in accordance with the provisions of Articles 40.3.1 and 40.3.2, including relevant rulings and interpretations by the Courts in relation to these Articles. [29418/06]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, Articles 40.3.1 and 40.3.2 refer to the personal rights of the citizen.

In this context, any of the State's laws under which I carry out my responsibilities and indeed under which my officials, agents and servants carry out their responsibilities, have been examined by the Office of the Attorney General, prior to their drafting and enactment by the Oireachtas.

The Attorney General, as legal advisor to the Government and Chief Law Officer of the State, advises the Government on legal and constitutional matters, including advice on whether proposed legislation complies with the Constitution and advice on rulings or interpretations relating to the Constitution.

When an issue arises within the Department on which legal advice is required or when a Constitutional issue arises, the advice of the Attorney General is sought.