Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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Question 348: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his Department has carried out an efficiency savings analysis with a view to cutting out unnecessary costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30223/07]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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My Department is very focused on delivering efficiency in the way it conducts its business. In line with this, my Department reviews all costs in relation to goods, utilities and services that we procure, on a structured basis.

My Department is also engaged in the Value for Money and Policy Review Initiatives process, the objective of which is to review programme expenditure on an ongoing basis.

My Department also complies with the Department of Finance's capital appraisal guidelines and associated value for money measures. This has involved the provision of training on appraisal techniques and implementing additional reporting and controls to ensure that capital expenditure projects are appraised, planned and monitored effectively in line with the requirements of value for money and efficiency.

My Department's Internal Audit Unit also provides assurance regarding the adequacy or otherwise of the systems of internal control within the Department and as part of the overall governance and control environment in the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources provides audit assurance that significant risks are identified, managed and controlled effectively throughout the Department.

This is achieved by conducting audits, writing reports and making recommendations in line with an Annual Audit Plan that has been approved by the Audit Committee. In addition we are, in common with other Government Departments, subject to review by the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General.