asked the Taoiseach if he has satisfied himself that no member of the Government is a member of any secret society, either lay or religious; and if he will outline the rules relating to Cabinet members in this regard.
3.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ministerial Outside Interests.
2.
asked the Taoiseach if he has satisfied himself that no member of the Government has retained any personal involvement in any business or professional activity; and if he will outline the rules relating to Cabinet members in this regard.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 2 and 3 together.
In so far as business interests or membership of societies or other organisations are concerned, the underlying principle, as applied by successive Administrations over many years, is that members of the Government should not engage in any activities that could reasonably be regarded as interfering or being incompatible with the duties of their offices. I am satisfied that this principle continues to be upheld by all members of the Government.
Can the Taoiseach tell us if he had discussions with his Cabinet colleagues on this precedent and if he is satisfied that members of the Cabinet, who would in normal circumstances be professional people, have entered into satisfactory relationships with, for example, the health boards with a view to avoiding a possible conflict of interest?
When Ministers are appointed these principles are drawn to their attention. Ministers of the Government are expected to comply with these underlying principles.