Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 327: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he is satisfied that the amount claimed by agencies falling within the remit of his Department in expenses is acceptable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41717/09]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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I can confirm to the Deputy that each of the agencies that are funded from within my Department's Vote Group is required to operate and comply in all aspects with circulars issued from time to time by the Department of Finance regarding travel and subsistence and other such expenses. Each agency has been provided with these circulars and has confirmed in writing to my Department that they are in compliance with the requirements arising. I wish also to advise the Deputy that, in line with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies, the Chairpersons of relevant State bodies within the ambit of my Department furnish me with annual reports and accounts for their bodies, including a comprehensive report covering a wide range of financial and governance issues. Such reports include confirmation that all appropriate procedures for expenses are being implemented.

I should add that the agencies that come within ambit of my Department have been instructed to ensure that only essential travel is to be undertaken, and are aware that expenses must be curtailed and kept to an absolute minimum. The Deputy will also be aware that the bodies in question are audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General.