Departmental Agencies.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 July 2008

Thursday, 10 July 2008

Questions (234)

Leo Varadkar

Question:

233 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children if she is confident that all agencies and bodies under her Department’s responsibility comply fully with the Department of Finance procurement guidelines for goods and services; if she has sought assurances from the agencies and bodies that this is the case since 2000 to date in 2008; if she has expressed concern to an agency or body that it might be acting inappropriately since 2000 to date in 2008; if so, the agency or body; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29171/08]

Written answers

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

A revised Framework for Corporate and Financial Governance was issued in 2006 to all agencies funded by my Department. Agencies are asked to ensure that staff involved in purchasing or placing contracts are familiar with national, EU and international rules that may apply and are aware of the legal and policy framework within which procurement must be conducted.

Agencies are required to report on an annual basis to my Department on how they have applied the governance standards outlined in this framework document or to explain their reasons where the standards have not been implemented.

My Department is compiling information in respect of the Health Service Executive and other directly funded agencies. The relevant information will be provided to the Deputy as soon as possible.