Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 September 2017
670. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if his attention has been drawn to the impending sale of a building (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39191/17]
View answer671. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if he will discuss with the Charities Regulator the legitimate concerns of the public in Newbridge relating to the sale of a building (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39193/17]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 670 and 671 together.
Pursuant to the Charities Act 2009 the Charities Regulator is required to be independent in the performance of its functions. It is the policy of the Charities Regulator not to comment to third parties in relation to specific applications for registration or any pre-investigation work because to divulge information to a third party could prejudice a future decision. In the circumstances it would not be appropriate for me nor my officials to enter into any discussions with the Regulator as sought by the Deputy. I am advised that the entity selling this building is not currently a registered charity and as such matters relating to the sale of the hall rest with the trustees.
If the Deputy has concerns that a charitable organisation is in breach of the Charities Act 2009, I suggest that such concerns should be brought to the attention of the Charities Regulator. All concerns received by the Charities Regulator are actively reviewed.
