I propose to take Questions Nos. 501 and 502 together.
The Revised Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies applies to the following bodies under the aegis of my Department:
The Courts Service.
The Property Registration Authority.
The Legal Aid Board.
The Private Security Authority.
The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner.
The Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner.
The Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission.
The Irish Film Classification Office.
The Equality Authority.
The Equality Tribunal.
The National Disability Authority.
The Human Rights Commission.
I can confirm that all of these Bodies have submitted their Annual Report for 2010, indicating that the governance arrangements in place are in compliance with the Revised Code. My Department is satisfied that these reports confirm satisfactory compliance. My Department has also put in place an annual verification process in relation to compliance with the Revised Code. Corporate governance arrangements are overseen by the appropriate Line Divisions and senior management of my Department.
I understand that the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform is to issue guidelines on best practice later this year in relation to managing the performance and governance of State Agencies.