Desmond J. O'Malley
Ceist:27 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for Finance if he has satisfied himself that the Ethics in Public Office Act, 1995, is a sufficient statutory framework for vindicating a good standard in public office. [5746/96]
Vol. 464 No. 6
27 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for Finance if he has satisfied himself that the Ethics in Public Office Act, 1995, is a sufficient statutory framework for vindicating a good standard in public office. [5746/96]
I regard the Act as a key statutory mechanism for delivering the highest standards of integrity and accountability in public office.
The Deputy should also be aware of the range of related legislative measures being pursued by the Government. These measures include the Electoral Bill (1994), the Compellability, Privilege and Immunities of Witnesses Bill (which are currently before the Houses of the Oireachtas), the Freedom of Information Bill, which will be published in a few months' time, and the reform of the Ministers and Secretaries Act, 1924, which will clarify the respective roles and areas of responsibility of Minister and Departmental Secretaries, and which is being directed by the Advisory Group on Public Service Reform Legislation.