Derek Keating (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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Question 28: To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of associations, organisations and regulatory bodies in receipt of grants, benefit in kind and sums of money from the State in tabular form for the past three years; if he is satisfied that the State should be financing such organisations; if he will undertake to examine the savings that can be made in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26304/12]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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In answer to the Deputy's question I can provide details in respect of the Office of Public Works which is under the auspices of my Department. It would be a matter for individual departments to supply the information in respect of the associations, organisations and regulatory bodies under their aegis.

The Office of Public Works has responsibility for the maintenance of the seven civil service crèches established under the Civil Service Childcare Initiative. In addition to the capital and current expenditure incurred by the OPW the crèches are provided with rent-free accommodation.

My Department retains the responsibility for any policy issues relating to the crèches and chairs the Board of the Initiative. The Central Expenditure Evaluation Unit of my Department is currently carrying out a Focussed Policy Assessment of the Civil Service Childcare Initiative. The question of further savings that can be made in this overall area, including as regards efficiencies in how State funding is allocated and monitored, will be kept under scrutiny.