Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 19 Nov 1997

Vol. 483 No. 1

Written Answers. - Ombudsman's Remit.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

36 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance if he intends widening the scope of the Ombudsman's remit either by order or legislation in the near future; the purpose of the increase of 46 per cent in the Estimates for the Ombudsman's office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19637/97]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

As the Deputy will be aware, the Government has committed itself, in An Action Programme for the Millennium, to expanding the remit of the Ombudsman. Legislative proposals to that end are at present being examined and will be brought forward in due course.

The increase of 46 per cent in the 1998 Estimates provision for the Ombudsman's office reflects the inclusion for the first time of a provision for the expenses of the office of the Information Commissioner following the enactment of the Freedom of Information Act, 1997. In addition, the extension of the functions of the Public Offices Commission under the Electoral Act 1997 has also required an increase in the provision for staffing and incidental expenses for the Commission.