Enda Kenny
Question:159 Mr. E. Kenny asked the Minister for Finance if it is proposed to introduce a code of ethics for all semi-State bodies; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Code of Ethics.
On 11 March 1992 I announced guidelines which set out the underlying principles which should govern relationships between Departments of State and State Bodies under their aegis. The guidelines advise written codes of conduct for directors, including disclosure of interests, and they express the necessity of securing Ministerial approval before subsidiaries are established or acquired. There is also a requirement to operate a competitive tendering procedure.
I requested my ministerial colleagues to bring the guidelines to the attention of the chairmen of all State bodies, commercial and non-commercial, operating under the aegis of their Departments. The guidelines are non-statutory and they are intended to complement statutory requirements in this area.