Jim O'Callaghan
Ceist:
309. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if an investigation was commenced in 2017 by OLAF, the European Anti-Fraud Office, into spending at the Garda Training College, Templemore; if so, if the investigation has been completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44533/19]
Amharc ar fhreagra
As the Deputy will be aware under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 it is the Garda Commissioner who is the Accounting Officer for the Garda Vote and is in law responsible for ensuring that the appropriate controls apply to expenditure within the organisation.
The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) is an organ of the European Union and is independent in the performance of its functions.
I will write directly to the Deputy in relation to this matter, when I am provided with information by An Garda Síochána in relation to the matter he has raised.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51
I refer to Parliamentary Question 309 which was for answer on 5 November 2019 where you asked if an investigation was commenced in 2017 by OLAF, the European Anti-Fraud Office, into spending at the Garda Training College, Templemore; if so, if the investigation has been completed. You had also sent me an email about this matter on 17 November 2020.
You will recall that the information could not be obtained in the time available and my predecessor undertook to consult with An Garda Síochána and contact you again when the information became available.
In view of the passage of time since your initial inquiry, my Department has recently engaged with the Garda authorities in relation to your query and An Garda Síochána can confirm that as of 18 December 2020, OLAF has carried out an investigation in this matter and that the outcome of this investigation has not yet been finalised.
I trust this information is of assistance.
