Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 March 2024
112. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage what additional financial support will be provided to Westmeath County Council in response to the unauthorised financial transactions by a third party, amounting to in excess of €500,000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10888/24]
View answerI was informed that Westmeath County Council has recently been subject to a third-party payment fraud in the amount of approximately €515,000.
I understand that as soon as the Council became aware of the matter it took all appropriate measures, including engaging with its insurer and specialist advisers. The issue is under investigation by An Garda Síochána and the Council is cooperating fully with that investigation. In addition, the Council is engaging with the supplier affected. There are currently no plans to provide additional financial support in relation to this matter. When investigations are complete, Westmeath County Council will issue a further statement.
Local authorities have anti-fraud and corruption policies in place. The procedures in Westmeath County Council’s anti fraud and corruption policy have been triggered and will inform the actions that they now undertake to address this matter.
