Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 Dec 2001

Vol. 545 No. 5

Written Answers. - Voluntary and Community Incorporated Bodies.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

97 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the impact of the new company law requirements, charges and penalties on voluntary and community bodies; her views on whether, under the new regime, it may be difficult or impossible to get community minded individuals to act as directors of such incorporated bodies because of the danger of personal liability for penalties; and if she will review the position in relation to community and voluntary incorporated bodies. [31022/01]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

For too long there has been a culture of non-compliance with the requirements of company law and a failure by companies and their officers to meet their responsibilities under the Companies Acts.

To encourage greater compliance with the law in the future a number of new requirements and charges have recently been introduced. There is nothing in the changes effected that increases the personal liability of people acting as company directors for breaches of the law.

I have no reason to believe that fewer people will be willing to act as directors of companies involved in voluntary or community activities because of the danger of personal liability for penalties. I hope that, before taking on the responsibility of company director, people will give proper consideration to the responsibilities that go with the position.