Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Independent)
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71. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will report on the serious allegations which have been brought to his attention of illegal or hidden economic activity on some building sites associated with the education capital development programme. [29229/14]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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In relation to one of the sites recently brought to my attention I understand that officials from Social Protection, Revenue and NERA carried out a site inspection at the end of May and I understand that Social Protection will be taking appropriate follow-up action arising.

As the Deputy is aware my Department appointed Contractors Administration Services (CAS), to conduct random audits on school building projects. CAS have been requested to carry out an audit of the other site which has been brought to my attention and should irregularities be uncovered in terms of non-compliance with relevant employment law, enforcement and prosecution falls under the remit of NERA and my Department will report any discrepancies found to it. If the audit uncovers any other matters of concern regarding tax compliance or social welfare fraud, such matters will be referred to either the Revenue Commissioners and/or the Department of Social Protection as appropriate.