Peadar Clohessy
Question:39 Mr. Clohessy asked the Minister for Defence if he intends to publish the efficiency audit group report on the Defence Forces; and if so when.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Report of Efficiency Audit Group.
Seán Ryan
Question:69 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Defence if he will make a copy of the Efficiency Audit Group report available to members of Dáil Éireann; and if, in the light of this report, the Ministers and Secretaries Act and the Defence Act will require to be amended; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions No. 39 and 69 together.
The Efficiency Audit Group was established by the Government in 1988 to examine the working and practices of each Government Department with a view to recommending improved or alternative practices and methods which would reduce costs and improve efficiency. In the defence area, two working groups have conducted studies on behalf of the group. The first study focused on the civil branches of the Department of Defence. A second working group was then established to examine administration within the Defence Forces. I understand that the Efficiency Audit Group has now completed its consideration of the report of its second working group and that the parent group will shortly make its report to the Taoiseach. It is intended to consider both reports together and any legislative implications involved will be taken into account.
Regarding publication, it is my intention that when the report on the Defence Forces becomes available, the Dáil will be given the fullest possible information concerning any decisions taken. Deputies will appreciate that the report may impinge on areas with security implications and that this factor will have to be considered before a decision is reached on the extent to which the results of the report may be published.
Will the Dáil get that report?
Yes, I will give the report to the Dáil when it becomes available. It will be some considerable time before it becomes a reality. Subject to whatever security matters may arise in the context of the report, all other elements will be contained in it. I assure the Deputy I will make it available, not to each Member of the House, but in the Library for the information of Deputies.