Departmental Agencies.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 October 2009

Thursday, 8 October 2009

Ceisteanna (84)

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

81 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has received a report into an organisation (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35156/09]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

I understand from FÁS that an audit was initiated by its Internal Audit Department in 2008 in response to a request from local management regarding aspects of the assessment process carried out by an external contractor.

FÁS is dealing with the findings of the Audit Report including a revision of the relevant procedures, the enhancement of the contract used when dealing with external contractors and the development of a protocol to allow appropriate sanctions to be taken against external contractors. The relevant external certifying bodies have been informed of the audit findings. In addition, where necessary, FÁS clients are re-assessed to ensure the integrity of the certification process.