Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 10: To ask the Minister for Defence the position regarding the ongoing independent accountants review regarding a specific account in the Irish Red Cross; when it is anticipated that the review will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38092/10]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Question 36: To ask the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to claims made on a television programme (details supplied) on 26 August regarding the Irish Red Cross; his views on whether these claims require independent investigation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38089/10]

Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 10 and 36 together.

The Irish Red Cross Society is an independent statute based charitable organisation with full power to manage its own affairs. I have no function in the day–to–day administration of the Irish Red Cross Society and as such, I do not get involved in the day-to-day running of its affairs.

In fact the Geneva Convention places an obligation on national Governments to protect the independence of the Red Cross Organisation.

The issue of the bank account in question is being dealt with by the Society. It is my understanding that all funds have been properly accounted for and that there is no suggestion of any wrong doing in relation thereto. The Society has put in place new and revised procedures so that such circumstances do not recur.