Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Of the 12 State Bodies under the aegis of my Department, one is registered as a Charity.

I am advised that Teagasc is registered for charitable status within the meaning of Section 207, Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997 under Charity Reference Number 2002275. The registration was progressed having regard to the principal functions of Teagasc as outlined in Section 4 of the Agriculture (Research, Training and Advice) Act, 1988 regarding the provision of educational and training services in agriculture and the dissemination of scientific information to the agricultural industry.

Having charitable status enables Teagasc to avail of certain tax exemptions granted by the Revenue Commissioners to efficiently manage its tax affairs in compliance with tax law and regulations. The registration is a matter for the Charities Regulator, who regulates charitable organisations operating in Ireland, to ensure compliance with the Charities Act and to support best practice in the governance and management of registered charities.

The Board and Director of Teagasc are accountable for its operation, including the day to day operation of its accounts. Teagasc is audited by the C&AG. It receives funding in the form of a grant from my Dept and the Secretary General is the accounting officer for  my Dept's vote.