Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 October 2019
11. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development further to Parliamentary Question No. 15 of 11 July 2019, when he plans to publish the findings of the review of the charitable status of Pobal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43831/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraPobal is a not for profit company which was originally established by Government in 1992 as Area Development Management (ADM) Ltd. Charitable status was granted to the company by the Revenue Commissioners on the 20th November 1996. In 2005 ADM was re-named Pobal. In accordance with Section 40 of the Charities Act, 2009, Pobal was entered onto the Register of Charitable Organisations on 16 October 2014.
The basis for Pobal having charitable status is tied to the objects of the Company, which are specified in its Memorandum and Articles of Association. I am satisfied that Pobal is fully compliant with the relevant legislative requirements including those of the Charities Act, 2009.
On its own initiative, Pobal undertook a review of its charitable status and in that regard sought independent legal advice on the matter. The Board of Pobal met in May 2019 to finalise their discussions relating to the review. I understand that it was decided by the Board that it was appropriate for the company to retain its charitable status. An update on the review was provided to my officials at an Oversight Meeting in June. I am satisfied that the Board of Pobal have considered the matter thoroughly and have acted appropriately. The report provided to the Board in relation to the review can be found on Pobal's website.
