I propose to take Questions Nos. 96 to 100, inclusive, 102, 103 and 105 together.
Evaluations are carried out by my Department in respect to the value of savings and reform as part of an ongoing process. There has been a wide range of reports and guidelines published, which are available on my Department's website, along with links to other related websites.
In addition the Irish Government Economic and Evaluation Service (IGEES) is an integrated cross-Government service which enhances the role of economics and value for money analysis in public policy making. IGESS staff operate in designated economic evaluation units and are engaged with almost all Government Departments.
As the Deputy will be aware, managing the delivery of public services within agreed budgetary allocations is a key responsibility of each Minister and Department to ensure that Vote-level allocations are adhered to while at the same time ensuring that they continue to provide essential services and respond appropriately to increasing demands. My Department continually monitors voted expenditure throughout the year to compare drawdown of funds from the Exchequer against published expenditure profiles. There is regular communication with all Departments and Offices to ensure that expenditure is being managed within agreed allocations. I report a monthly analysis of spending trends to Government, and we publish information each month as part of the Exchequer Statement. The position at the end of May showed a gross total expenditure underspend against profile. The end-June position will be published later today as part of the Exchequer Statement. Expenditure will continue to be monitored closely for the remainder of the year so as to ensure that our fiscal targets are met.
The Deputy will note that in 2014, the economy expanded by 4.8% to become the fastest growing economy in Europe, with domestic demand and personal consumption now contributing to economic growth. In relation to external issues impacting on the economy and in particular the situation in Greece, this is primarily a matter for my colleague the Minister for Finance, Mr Michael Noonan. However, I understand that financial market developments in the euro area (outside of Greece) have been relatively calm in recent days, suggesting that firewalls created and governance changes made during the crisis are operating effectively. This is a situation which will continue to be closely monitored.