Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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269. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the progress made in the investigation of sites of State awarded contracts where it is claimed that widespread social welfare fraud is being carried out; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32802/14]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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Since the appointment of Contractors Administration Services (CAS) a total of 31 complaints have been received in respect of 26 school/college building projects.

CAS have completed 16 Random Audits on School/College Construction Sites with 1 audit on-going. (An audit may be in respect of 1 or more complaints received) As a result of the Random Audits information in relation to 5 projects have been referred to the Revenue Commissioners, 1 to the Department of Social and Family Affairs and 1 to National Employment Rights Authority (NERA).

CAS are continuing to conduct audits on school and college building projects and any issues of non-compliance brought to the attention of my Department will be audited by CAS and should irregularities be uncovered in terms of non-compliance with employment law, enforcement and prosecution falls under the remit of NERA. My Department will liaise with NERA on the progress of the random audits by CAS and will report any discrepancies found to it.

If an 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.