Vol. 432 No. 6
67 Mr. McGahon asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if there is a code of practice relating to confidentiality of discussions with companies planning industrial development; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
105 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment whether there is a code of practice in place to prevent premature publication of confidential information relating to prospective industrial development projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 67 and 105 together.
The confidentiality requirements concerning industrial projects are set out in the legislation of the relevant State body and/or in the terms and conditions attaching to employment with that body.
In the case of the IDA, the Industrial Development Act, 1986 prohibits any member of the staff from disclosing any information obtained while performing duties as a member of the Authority or of any board or committee of the Authority or as a member of the staff of, or adviser or consultant to, the Authority.
I understand that the IDA has also drawn up strict operational procedures to be observed by staff to ensure that confidentiality vis-á-vis client companies is preserved. I am assured by the IDA that these procedures are clearly understood, and scrupulously adhered to, by IDA staff.
I am advised that a code of conduct has also been drawn up for SFADCo Board members, under which directors are required to maintain the confidentiality of all information they obtain by virtue of their position.
As far as the staff of SFADCo are concerned, I understand that they, too, under the terms of their appointment, are prohibited from revealing information, either during or after their employment with the Company, about the Company's business with a third party. Any breach of this solemn undertaking will lead to the termination of the employee's contract forthwith.
