Eoin Ryan
Question:20 Mr. E. Ryan asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade the plans, if any, he has to review the operations of An Bord Tráchtála; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7416/96]
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - An Bord Tráchtála Operations.
As Minister, I have a responsibility to ensure that all State bodies which report to my Department are operating in accordance with relevant Government policy and functioning in an efficient and effective manner. This involves a process of continuous assessment and review and, where necessary, changes in the policy underlying their operations. Arising from this activity. I identified recently at the launch of the board's 1995-96 Annual Review and Outlook two strategically important tasks in the medium term for the board — to increase significantly the number of indigenous exporters and to increase our share of continental European markets.
Does the Minister intend to review the operations of An Bord Tráchtála?
It is my responsibility to ensure that it, and other boards under my remit, functions in an efficient and effective manner. In the course of determining that it is necessary to examine on a continuous basis the method of the board's operations. I do not have plans for a complete overhaul of An Bord Tráchtála.
Is the Minister saying that a continuous review of An Bord Tráchtála's operations is being carried out? Is he ecstatic about the manner in which it carries out its functions?
I am not sure "ecstatic" is a word one could use in respect of any performance in this House.
The Minister should be happy about its operations.
The matter involves a process of continuous assessment and review and I am happy to be involved in that.