Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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254. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will address a matter (details supplied) in relation to a report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2451/18]

Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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The business case for vehicle telematics arose from audit recommendations by RSM McClure who conducted a review within Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). I am advised by IFI that the report of RSM McClure clearly identified the risks relating to fleet which is mainly focused on legal compliance, value for money and being able to demonstrate visibility on fleet activities. The Score Rating for fleet operation was defined as limited. RSM found a significant risk that the system could fail to meet its objectives. It was recommended that prompt action was required to improve the adequacy and/or effectiveness of governance, risk management and control.

I would emphasise that the primary purpose of a vehicle telematics system is to improve efficiency, productivity, vehicle utilisation, service delivery, value for money, and of paramount importance the security and health and safety of employees. Following a competitive tender process, a company well recognised in the field, was awarded the contract to provide fleet management software and vehicle telematics to IFI.

The tender was awarded on the basis of the review above identifying the need for an electronic solution to ensure legal compliance. The successful tenderer  has over 1000 companies/organisations using this system, some of which are local authorities as well as government agencies such as the Office of Public Works, Irish Coastguard and others.  Other Public Bodies have similar systems in place.

IFI operates within the assigned maximum number of employees as assigned by my Department based on sanction from the Department of Public Expenditure and reform. The filling of any post that becomes vacant is a day to day operational matter for the Board and management of IFI and is reviewed on a case by case basis, in line with the permitted number of employees and the national operational requirements of IFI.