Vol. 416 No. 6
26 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Finance when it is intended to introduce the code of conduct for the semi-State sector which was announced by the Government on 25 September 1991; if he will outline the main provisions of the code of conduct; whether it will be statutory or voluntary; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The Deputy will be aware that I have received from the Secretary of my Department a report, prepared at the request of my predecessor, on the principles which should govern the relationship between departments of State and the State bodies under their aegis, together with subsidiary and associated companies of the bodies in question.
The examination was designed to ensure that the traditional standards of integrity and conduct which are appropriate to the public service are maintained; and the interests of the community and the State as owners of these bodies are fully taken into account in their operation.
Among the questions examined were tendering for contracts, the monitoring of acquisitions and reporting and accountability.
I am examining the conclusions and recommendations of this report, which I have submitted to Government, with a view to preparing and setting in place appropriate guidelines for State bodies based on its findings.
These guidelines will, of their nature, be non-statutory but they will complement statutory requirements in this area.
