I propose to take Questions Nos. 256, to 261, inclusive, together.
As the information sought by the Deputies is concerned with day-to-day activities of FÁS, I would suggest that they seek this information direct from FÁS.
The rationale behind the establishment of non-commercial State-sponsored bodies such as FÁS to carry out executive functions of Government is to provide the optimum degree of flexibility and freedom and to relieve Ministers of responsibility for the decisions which the boards and staff of the bodies take in the course of day-to-day administration of their responsibilities.
The principal functions of FÁS are set out in the Labour Services Act, 1987. I am answerable to the Dáil for the overall policy of FÁS including the legislation under which it operates and also for the Exchequer allocations provided to it. However, day-to-day operations of FÁS are a matter for its board, and I am not answerable to these specifics. Section 12(5) of the 1987 Act relieves FÁS of the obligation of furnishing me with information on day-to-day activities.