Written answers

Tuesday, 3 May 2011

Department of Justice, Equality and Defence

Programmes for Government

9:00 pm

Photo of John McGuinnessJohn McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 491: To ask the Minister for Defence the specific proposals in the programme for Government for which he is responsible; the target dates he has agreed for the delivery of these proposals; and if he will publish an implementation schedule. [9581/11]

Photo of Alan ShatterAlan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The relevant specific commitments in the Programme for Government are:

- the implementation of the Defence Forces Medical Services Review as resources allow, and

- the initiation of a detailed legal review of the basis, structures and governance of the Red Cross in Ireland to improve its functioning in the light of changing circumstances.

The Defence Forces Medical Services Review completed by PA Consulting in 2009 recommended a major change programme. As recommended by the consultants, a number of Working Groups were established to progress the various projects identified. All bar one of these groups has completed their final report and that group is due for completion in the coming weeks. The reports of the Working Groups will be considered for approval and acceptance by a Steering Group. It is expected that substantial progress will be made over the coming months in implementing the recommendations.

The Irish Red Cross Order 1939 sets out the basis upon which the Society is governed and was made pursuant to the Red Cross Act 1938. Following submission to the Office of the Attorney General of a draft Order that would amend the 1939 Order, discussions on the extent of changes that can be made to this legislation are continuing. Following receipt of legal advice from the Office of the Attorney General, which is expected in the coming weeks, I will review the legislative changes that are proposed and consider bringing them to Government for approval.

It is important to note that whatever changes may be made to the 1939 Order, a comprehensive review of all Red Cross legislation, and in particular the primary legislation, will be commenced by my Department.

In addition to the commitments relating specifically to my Department, the Programme for Government contains commitments that cut across all Government Departments. My Department is actively engaged in progressing these commitments, such as the comprehensive spending review, which recently commenced.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.