I propose to take Questions Nos. 344 to 346, inclusive, together.
Bord na gCon is a statutory body responsible for the regulation of greyhound racing under the Greyhound Industry Act, 1958. It is required to conduct its business in accordance with public procurement and other rules.
As I have already outlined to the Deputy in Parliamentary Question No 25646 of 25 June 2015 my Department commissioned Indecon consultants to carry out a review of certain matters relating to Bord na gCon, including matters relating to governance, finance, regulation and welfare.
That review noted the C&AG’s findings in relation to procurement, but also indicated that Bord na gCon had improved its procurement function by appointing a procurement officer in August 2013. I understand from Bord na gCon that a significant amount of work has been undertaken since then, including the development and introduction of new protocols relating to the purchase of goods and services, a review of procurement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with EU public Procurement Directive 2004/18/EC (European and National legislation) and the Code of Corporate Governance.
Following on from the publication of the Indecon Report in July 2014, Bord na gCon submitted an action plan in October 2014 with timelines for implementing the 27 recommendations in the Indecon report dealing with governance, finance, regulation and welfare. This action plan has been published on the Bord na gCon website.
Currently Bord na gCon has six procurement projects underway. All requested procurement information and documentation was provided to the C& AG in respect of its 2014 audit and Bord na gCon is currently awaiting the outcome of this audit.
Bord na gCon regularly updates my Department with regard to the implementation of the recommendations in the Indecon report, with a view to ensuring that the greyhound industry can reach its full potential and prosper into the future.