Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 12 Feb 1991

Vol. 404 No. 9

Written Answers. - State Funds.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

60 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education the progress which has been made in the investigation into the failure to date of the Carysfort College authorities to account for approximately £800,000 of State funds which was highlighted in the last report of the Comptroller and Auditor General; if she will outline the explanation which has been given by the college authorities, if she has initiated any legal steps in the matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Mrs. O'Rourke)

My Department are continuing their investigation of issues raised in the Comptroller and Auditor General's report concerning discrepancies between data furnished by Carysfort College to my Department, when seeking grants, and accounts subsequently submitted. My Department have sought the guidance of the Chief State Solicitor's Office in the matter and are currently examining additional information supplied by the manager of the college.

As the issues involved are of a complex accounting and legal nature, I do not wish to make further comment on the matter, pending completion of the examination and receipt of further legal advice on action to be taken. However, I wish to reassure the Deputy that I am determined that a satisfactory resolution of the issues will be achieved.