I propose to take Questions Nos. 171 and 172 together.
My Department has a Management Board, chaired by the Secretary General, which meets regularly on a monthly basis. Minutes of the Board meetings, which note actions to be taken and the people responsible for progressing these actions, are circulated subsequent to each meeting.
A separate meeting of the Management Board is held each month which I and my advisor attend. Matters discussed at these meetings focus on major policy and strategic business issues. Minutes of these meetings are circulated subsequent to each meeting.
In undertaking my ministerial role, I meet with officials of my Department on an ongoing basis to discuss issues relating to their areas of responsibility. These meetings usually focus on a specific policy or business issue and are generally attended by officials with responsibility for the particular issue under discussion. While actions arising from such meetings are noted and acted on at official level, no formal minutes are circulated.
I am satisfied that the arrangements in place through which I consult with officials at the top and senior levels in my Department are effective in supporting me to discharge fully and effectively my ministerial responsibilities.
