Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 March 2014
200. Deputy Luke 'Ming' Flanagan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding formal correspondence to Ministers; if he will confirm that all communications sent which are deemed to have come to the Ministers' attention are dealt with in an appropriate manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11742/14]
View answerAll correspondence received in my office is acknowledged and responded to appropriately, having particular regard to my roles and responsibilities as Minister in relation to the issue or issues being raised. Insofar as the particular case being raised by the Deputy is concerned, my Office, both in September 2013 and again in March 2014, drew the correspondent's attention to the important fact that the Equality Tribunal is independent of me as Minister in the exercise of its functions, the carrying out of which are subject to an independent appeals process in addition to Judicial Review by the High Court. In such circumstances, it remains inappropriate for me to involve myself as Minister in the issue. Furthermore, with regard to any matters where a correspondent is of the belief that he or she has evidence of any criminal act, as is alleged in this case, the correspondent would be advised – as has been the case here - that he or she may bring this, if appropriate, to the attention of An Garda Síochána.
Finally in the case which the Deputy is raising, all correspondence was forwarded to the Director of the Equality Tribunal for his information.
