Public Finance Procedures.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 May 2004

Thursday, 20 May 2004

Ceisteanna (111)

John Bruton

Ceist:

111 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the secretary general brought to his attention all relevant financial consideration for decisions being taken in accordance to relevant sections of public finance procedures; and if a decision was taken in recent times where the secretary general did not have an opportunity to comply with this aspect of public finance procedures prior to a decision being taken or announced which had financial implications. [14962/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

I take it that the Deputy is referring to section A5.5 of the public financial procedures which states that an accounting officer should ensure that all relevant financial considerations are taken fully into account, and where necessary brought to the attention of Ministers, in relation to the preparation and implementation of policy proposals relating to expenditure or income for which he or she is accounting officer. I am satisfied that the accounting officer in the Department of Foreign Affairs has carried out this duty.