I propose to take Questions Nos. 140, 143 and 149 together.
Following from the recommendations contained in the first report of the decentralisation implementation group, each Department and agency has been asked to draw up initial implementation plans. These plans will address, among other issues, the risks associated with decentralisation and the means of mitigating those risks. The plans are being prepared both within my Department and by the agencies operating under its aegis and when completed, all of the material will be sent, through the Department of Finance, to the decentralisation implementation group.
My Department's annual report for 2003 is being drafted. It is not proposed to include an analysis of, or material on decentralisation in the 2003 annual report. It is intended that these matters will be addressed in reports for subsequent years as the programme of decentralisation is implemented.
My Department has set up a decentralisation group which will report regularly to the Secretary General and the management advisory committee of my Department on all issues relating to decentralisation, including issues relating to the business impact of the programme and the potential for rationalising existing business processes within my Department. Any matters arising from the work of this group will be brought to my attention on an ongoing basis.