Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 289: To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the action he has taken to date to fulfil the commitment in the programme for Government to make substantial cuts to the number of State bodies and companies; the number of such bodies and companies under his remit; the number that have been reformed, merged or abolished since March of this year; the plan in place within his Department to fully deliver on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32845/11]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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There are currently 14 State bodies/agencies funded from my Department's Vote Group. I should advise the Deputy that the question of the rationalisation and the reduction of State bodies is currently being considered in the context of the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure and the overall budgetary and estimates process for 2012, and decisions on such matters will be made by the Government over the coming period.

The priorities set out in the programme for Government for the rationalisation of State agencies states that rationalisation must be cost effective and lead to a more transparent, accountable and efficient public service.