Vol. 516 No. 6
111 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Defence the additional funding, if any, sought by the Irish Red Cross to cover the cost of a financial settlement made with its former financial controller who took an unfair dismissal case or legal costs arising from the case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8809/00]
146 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Defence the advice or assistance, if any, sought by the Irish Red Cross from his Department to resolve internal problems; when the strategic review of the organisation will be completed; if he has asked for a copy of the findings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8808/00]
148 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Defence the steps, if any, he has taken to ensure equality of opportunity for staff of the Irish Red Cross in view of the fact their salaries are paid out of a grant-in-aid provided by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8811/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 111, 146 and 148 together.
As I have previously stated in this House, the society is an autonomous body with full powers to manage and administer its affairs through its governing body, the central council. I am also mindful that a fundamental principle of the International Committee of the Red Cross is that all Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies enjoy freedom from political involvement worldwide. My Department, as in the past, is available to provide help and assistance to the society as and when requested. As I have previously indicated, I have no function in the administration of the Red Cross Society. I do not get involved in the day to day running of its affairs. All matters relating to the staff of the society are a matter for the society itself.
As the Deputies will be aware, the new Secretary General on his appointment undertook a strategic review of the operation of the society. This review involves all staff members and volunteers with a view to ensuring the strengthening and development of the society. It is intended that the review of the operations of the society will be completed by mid-2000.
My Department administers a grant-in-aid to the Irish Red Cross Society, which this year amounts to £575,000. The grant-in-aid covers salaries of the 14 permanent staff in the headquarters of the society, based in Merrion Square, Dublin 2, and the annual grant for the International Committee of the Red Cross in Geneva.
No additional funding was sought by the society in relation to any financial settlement or other costs in respect of any former employee of the society.
