I propose to take Questions Nos. 56 and 57 together.
My Department's Planning and Building selects the projects to be audited by the company referred to by the Deputy both on a random basis and following receipt of complaints via my Department's on-line complaint system.
As a result of the audits carried out to date five projects have been referred to Revenue Commissioners, one to the Department of Social Protection and one to NERA for further investigation and necessary action if required. As the Deputy is aware the Revenue Commissioners and the Department of Social Protection cannot for a variety of operational reasons comment on individual cases or investigations.
With regard to Building Projects funded by my Department, contractors wishing to tender for major projects must sign a Personal Situation Declaration under Oath confirming that they are in compliance with Regulation 53 of SI 329 of 2006. Any contractor failing to sign this declaration is excluded from tender competitions.