Written answers

Tuesday, 7 November 2017

Department of Rural and Community Development

Departmental Funding

Photo of Dara CallearyDara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1151. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development the steps he has taken to ensure that grant-aided organisations are spending their moneys appropriately in view of the revelations regarding a charity (details supplied) in 2016; if his attention has been drawn to concerns over organisations funded by his Department; if so, the action he has taken; if his Department has issued new procedures regarding the use of credit cards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46100/17]

Photo of Michael RingMichael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am satisfied that the necessary arrangements are in place in my Department for the proper management and accountability of grant funding provided by my Department. 

My  Department has been assigned responsibility for the Charities Regulator, which is fully independent in the performance of its statutory functions. The general function of the Regulator is to regulate charitable organisations operating in Ireland, in order to increase public trust and confidence in their management and administration. If anyone has concerns that a charitable organisation is in breach of the Charities Act 2009, I would encourage them to forward details of their concerns directly to the Charities Regulator.  I am advised that all concerns received are actively reviewed.

No new procedures regarding the use of credit cards have been introduced by my recently established Department. The Deputy may wish to note that the Charities Regulator has published guidelines on Financial Controls for Charities which, inter alia, include guidance on the use of credit and debit cards. These guidelines are available from the Regulators website (www.charitiesregulator.ie). The Deputy may also wish to note that the Regulator is conducting a public consultation process, including a series of public meetings throughout the country, to gather opinions and develop proposals for the governance of charitable organisations.

My Department’s Service Level Agreement with POBAL, who administer many of my Departments funding schemes,  require them to adhere to all relevant legislative provisions, central Department circulars and guidelines and associated public financial  procedures. My Department’s Inspectorate report on control systems in place in relation to EU co-funded programmes and in addition through the provision of an inspection systems provides the necessary assurances that expenditure is carried out in accordance with public finance requirements.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.