Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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305. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the protocols in place, since March 2011, to set standards in parliamentary replies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23505/15]

Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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306. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he is satisfied that parliamentary questions are adequately replied to within his Department; the steps he has taken since March 2011 to ensure parliamentary questions are fully responded to within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23521/15]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 305 and 306 together.

I can confirm that I am satisfied with the way Parliamentary Questions are replied to in my Department.  Individual sections provide me with briefings and draft responses in advance of deadlines so I can personally review each question until I am satisfied that a full and comprehensive response is being given.

There have been some occasions where the research needed for a comprehensive answer requires some additional time.  On these occasions, the Deputy has been notified and the information is sent on within five working days.

Since coming to office, there have been no representations to my Department expressing concerns with the response received to a Parliamentary Question.