I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 to 26, inclusive, together.
The Ethics in Public Office Act, 1995, deals comprehensively with the matter of gifts to officeholders. Section 15 of the Act provides that gifts which exceed £500 in value and which are given to an officeholder by virtue of office be deemed to be gifts to the State. In these circumstances the gift, or in certain circumstances its value, is transferred to State Custody or the Exchequer.
The Act expressly exempts gifts given by a friend or relation of the recipient for personal reasons only.
Government guidelines prepared in accordance with section 15 (4) of the Act provide that all officeholders are expected to adhere to the fundamental principle that an offer of gifts, hospitality or services should not be accepted where it would, or might appear to, place him or her under an obligation. The guidelines go on to make specific provision for dealing with such matters. Again the guidelines provide that the supply of property or services below £500 in value or made for personal reasons by a friend or relative are exempt.