Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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49. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality her views on media reports that documents discovered in Garda headquarters show her Department was informed regarding financial irregularities at Templemore in June 2008; the steps she is taking on foot of these reports; when she was informed of these irregularities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23792/17]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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My Department received a copy of the draft Interim Internal Audit Report regarding the finances at the Garda College at Templemore from An Garda Síochána's Head of the Internal Audit on 16 September 2016. I understand that the draft report was sent to all interested parties for their observations before being finalised. A copy of the final Report was received by my Department from the Garda Commissioner on 27 March 2017.

As the Deputy will be aware I have indicated publicly my concern at the findings of the Interim Internal Audit Report. As the Deputy will also be aware the Public Accounts Committee is examining the Commissioner in relation to the Interim Audit Report and intends to resume that examination in the coming weeks, and will report subsequently. The Garda Commissioner has been Accounting Officer for the Garda Vote since July 2006. Very particular responsibilities lie with Accounting Officers under the law. However, I understand that this matter has already been addressed before the Committee. I can assure the Deputy that I will pay very careful attention to the proceedings at the Committee and, in particular, any report that it may make. If action is required on my part as a result, I will not hesitate to take it.

While, of course, there has to be accountability in relation to what went on at the College, the immediate priority has to be ensuring the problems identified in the audit are resolved. I have been assured that the Garda Authorities recognise the gravity of the issues raised and that they are taking comprehensive steps to progress the recommendations in the Report. External governance expertise and auditors have been engaged. A Steering Committee, chaired by the Garda Síochána Chief Administrative Officer and including a representative from my Department, is overseeing the implementation of the recommendations. In addition, upon receipt of the report I referred it to the Policing Authority to oversee the implementation of the recommendations and to report back to me each quarter. I expect the Authority to submit its first report to me in July.