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Appendix 5Minutes of proceedings of the Joint CommitteeJoint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 19th January, 2005The Joint Committee met at 2.37 p.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin and Ned O’Keeffe. *Deputy Carey substituted for Deputy John McGuinness. **Senator Coghlan substituted for Senator Phelan for part of the meeting. 2.Minutes of meeting of 15th December, 2004 Arising from the minutes Senator O’Toole raised the issue of an outstanding monthly report from the Department of Finance on decentralisation. It was agreed the Department would be contacted again on the matter. The Committee was advised by the Chairman that just one Department had yet to furnish a report to the Committee under section 32 of the Freedom of Information Act 1997 and the Department would report to the Committee within 3 weeks. Minutes of the meeting of 10th November, 2004, were agreed. 3.Correspondence EU Scrutiny The Committee had before it a list of the proposals considered by the Sub-Committee on European Scrutiny on 16th December 2004. The Committee agreed that SEC(2004)15511/04 FIN 567 (Council Number) which proposes to use the flexibility mechanism to fund the PEACE II Programme, Decentralised Agencies and external aid to Iraq did not warrant scrutiny by it. The Committee also agreed none of the proposals listed warranted scrutiny by it. Statutory Instruments The Committee had before it five statutory instruments from the Department of Finance. It agreed not to consider — (i)S.I. 757 of 2004 entitled European Communities (Income Tax Relief for Investment in Corporate Trades — Business Expansion Scheme and Seed Capital Scheme) Regulations 2004; (ii)S.I. 758 of 2004 entitled Finance Act 2004 (Commencement of Section 18(2)) Order 2004; (iii)S.I. 760 of 2004 entitled Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland Act 2004 (Commencement) Order (No. 2) 2004; (iv)S.I. 814 of 2004 entitled Finance Act 2004 (Commencement of Section 28) Order 2004; and (v)S.I. 853 of 2004 entitled European Communities (Distance Marketing of Consumer Financial Services) Regulations 2004. Consideration of Travel Reports The Committee noted a report from Deputy Joan Burton who attended, on behalf of the Committee, the ESRI Budget Perspectives Conference in Dublin in October 2004. Tralee Beef and Lamb The Committee agreed to defer this item to the next meeting. Review of Remuneration Structures and Transparency The Committee noted an e-mail dated 12th January 2005 from the IFSRA regarding the publishing of a consultation paper on its review of remuneration structures and transparency. Review of Tax Reliefs and Exemptions for High Earners The Committee noted a letter has been received from the Minister for Finance regarding a public consultation process inviting submissions on tax reliefs and exemptions for high earners. As this topic is on the Committee’s Work Schedule for 2005, the Committee agreed it would consider the issue of making a submission when it is discussed in the context of the Work Programme. Information received from the Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners The Committee noted a letter and appendices dated 13th January 2005 from the Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners which was issued in response to various tax issue raised at a meeting with the Chairman in November 2004. The Committee again agreed to review the information provided in the letter during discussions on tax exemptions in the context of the Work Programme for 2005. Charges for ATM services provided The Committee noted a letter dated 13th December 2004 from the IFSRA in response to the Committee’s request for a briefing note on ATM charges in banks and in other commercial premises. Study of Competition in the (non-investment) Banking Sector by the Competition Authority The Committee noted a covering letter sent to the Chairman regarding the Competition Authority’s Study of Competition in the (non-investment) Banking Sector, Draft Recommendations & Consultation Paper on 14th December 2004. The Committee agreed it would hire a consultant to assimilate the information gathered during the course of the Committee’s examination of bank charges and interest rates last year. The consultant would also be required to draft a report to include the recommendations of the Committee. The Committee agreed that consultants could be contacted regarding their availability and details would be available for the next meeting where the Committee would select a consultant, clearing the way for work to commence on the report in February. The report, once agreed by the Committee, would then be submitted to the Competition Authority. Reply from IFSRA regarding the Value of Uncashed Bank Drafts The Committee had before it a reply from the IFSRA in response to a point raised by Deputy Timmins at a meeting with IFSRA on 20th May 2004 regarding the value of uncashed bank drafts in the banking system. The IFSRA advised the Clerk on 19th January that the information supplied may be incorrect and that the situation will be clarified by IFSRA as soon as possible. The Committee agreed to await clarification of the information provided. Invitation to a seminar on Better Regulation in the Aviation Sector The Committee noted an invitation from the Institute of European Affairs to a seminar on “Better regulation: Aviation Regulation” on Tuesday, 8th February, 2005 in the Institute. NIB The Committee had before it a letter from Senator Joe O’Toole concerning the report by High Court Inspectors into the National Irish Bank. As representatives of the IFSRA were waiting to discuss this issue with the Committee, the Committee agreed to defer a decision on Senator O’Toole’s proposal to invite representatives of NIB to examine the issues raised in the report until after the discussion with the IFSRA. The meeting was suspended by agreement from 3.12 to 3.13 p.m. 4.Discussion with the Chief Executive of the IFSRA to discuss: (i) the Report of the Inspectors appointed (under section 8 of the Companies Act 1990) to investigate the affairs of National Irish Bank Limited and National Irish Bank Financial Services Limited, and (ii) the IFSRA report on Investigations in AIB Group on Foreign Exchange and Other Charging Issues & Deal Allocation and Associated Issues. The Committee firstly heard a presentation by Dr. Liam O’Reilly, Chief Executive of the IFSRA, on issues arising from the Report of the Inspectors appointed (under section 8 of the Companies Act 1990) to investigate the affairs of National Irish Bank Limited and National Irish Bank Financial Services Limited. Dr. O’Reilly was accompanied by Ms. Mary O’Dea, the IFSRA’s Consumer Director, Mr. Patrick Neary, the IFSRA’s Prudential Director and Mr. Martin Moloney, the IFRSRA’s Head of Regulatory Enforcement and Development. Discussion ensued. The Committee then heard a further presentation by Dr. O’Reilly on issues arising from the IFSRA’s own report on Investigations in AIB Group on Foreign Exchange and Other Charging Issues & Deal Allocation and Associated Issues. Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew. The Committee agreed to defer a decision on Senator O’Toole’s afore-mentioned proposal until the next meeting. The Committee also agreed to defer the remaining items on the agenda until the next meeting. 5.Adjournment The Committee adjourned at 5.25 p.m. until 3.00 p.m. on 16th February 2005. ________________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 16th February, 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 16th February, 2005The Joint Committee met at 3.10 p.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Richard Bruton and Joan Burton. *Deputy Lynch substituted for Deputy Joan Burton. 2.Minutes of meeting of 19th January, 2005 Minutes of the meeting of 19th January 2005 were agreed. 3.Correspondence Feasta The Committee had previously noted a circular letter from Feasta. It was agreed that the letter would be forwarded to the Joint Committee on Environment and Local Government. Tralee Beef and Lamb The Committee noted a letter from Anglo Irish Bank following the Committee’s invitation to the Bank to discuss the receivership of Tralee Beef and Lamb. Deputy O’Keeffe referred to a note and other documents supplied by a farmer creditor which were previously noted by the Committee on 15th September 2004. It was agreed to invite the farmer creditors to meet with the Committee at an early date. NIB The Committee noted a letter from Senator Joe O’Toole concerning the report by the High Court Inspectors into the National Irish Bank. It was agreed to invite representatives of the Bank to meet the Committee at any early date. Bank Frauds The Committee noted a letter and CD from Mr. James Stewart, of Financial Outrage in the United Kingdom which referred to bank frauds particularly in relation to interest only endowment funded mortgages. As the issue of endowment mortgages is listed as an item for discussion in the draft Work Programme for 2005 it was agreed it would be discussed in the context of our discussion on the Work Programme. Nationwide Health Solutions Ltd. The Committee noted a letter from Nationwide Health Solutions Ltd. which sought support for an amendment to the Finance Bill 2005. It was agreed the letter would be forwarded to the Minister for Finance. Revenue Commissioners The Committee noted a letter and press release from Senator Joe O’Toole concerning the issues surrounding the repayment, by the Revenue Commissioners, of tax overpaid by taxpayers. It was agreed to invite the Revenue Commissioners to meet with the Committee at an early date and that a detailed briefing note would be sought on this issue from the Revenue Commissioners to be circulated at least one week in advance of the meeting with the Committee. The Chairman also proposed to include the Revenue Commissioners under Issues for Examination in the Work Programme for 2005. EU Scrutiny The Committee had before it a list of the proposals considered by the Sub-Committee on European Scrutiny on 27th January. The Committee agreed to scrutinise the following proposals COM(2004)641 which proposes a Council Regulation laying down implementation measures for a common system of value added tax, and COM(2004)728 which proposes a Council Directive firstly, amending an earlier Directive with a view to simplifying value added tax obligations, secondly, the laying down of detailed rules for the refund of value added tax, and thirdly, administrative co-operation arrangements in the context of the one-stop shop scheme and the refund procedure for value added tax. It was agreed that these two proposals and the four outstanding proposals selected for scrutiny in 2004 would be scrutinised together in the near future. The Committee also agreed none of the proposals listed warranted scrutiny by it. Statutory Instruments The Committee had before it ten statutory instruments from the Department of Finance. The 21-day review period did not apply to the first nine Statutory Instruments but did to the tenth. The Committee agreed not to consider — (i)S.I. 720 of 2004 entitled European Communities (Credit Institutions) (Fair Value Accounting) Regulations 2004; (ii)S.I. 727 of 2004 entitled European Communities (Financial Conglomerates) Regulations; (iii)S.I. 728 of 2004 entitled European Communities (Non-Life Insurance) Framework (Amendment) Regulations 2004; (iv)S.I. 729 of 2004 entitled European Communities (Life Assurance) Framework (Amendment No. 2) Regulations 2004; (v)S.I. 730 of 2004 entitled European Communities (Consolidated Supervision of Credit Institutions)(Amendment) Regulations 2004; (vi)S.I. 731 of 2004 entitled European Communities (Supplementary Supervision of Insurance Undertakings in an Insurance Group) (Amendment) Regulations 2004; (vii)S.I. 732 of 2004 entitled European Communities (Non-Life Insurance) (Amendment) Regulations 2004; (viii)S.I. 733 of 2004 entitled European Communities (Life Assurance) (Amendment) Regulations 2004; (ix)S.I. 734 of 2004 entitled European Communities (Licensing and Supervision of Credit Institutions)(Amendment) Regulations 2004; (x)S.I. 52 of 2005 entitled National Development Finance Agency Act 2002 (Amendment of Schedule) Order 2005. Decentralisation The Committee had before it a reply from the Department of Finance in response to the Committee’s request for outstanding monthly reports from the Department on the issue of decentralisation. It was agreed to reply to the Secretary of the Decentralisation Implementation Group requesting urgent attention be given to providing the Committee with one report on the whole process to be supplied by the Implementation Group. Expenditure Review Initiative The Committee had before it a reply from the Chairman of the Office of Public Works in response to the Committee’s request for his views on issues affecting the capacity of Office of Public Works to participate fully in the Expenditure Review Initiative. It was agreed to reply to the Chairman requesting that whatever arrangements were necessary should be put in place to ensure participation. Visit of German Parliamentary Delegation The Committee had before it a note regarding the proposed visit to Dublin by a delegation of the Committee on Finance of the German Parliament on 9th and 10th June 2005 which requested a meeting with the members of the Committee to discuss issues of mutual interest. As the Houses are unlikely to be sitting on that day, it was agreed that some members would meet the delegation informally and the Clerk would contact members in advance of the visit to arrange a suitable time. Irish Charities Tax Reform Group The Committee noted a letter from Irish Charities Tax Reform Group which sought support for an amendment to the Finance Bill 2005. It was agreed the letter would be forwarded to the Minister for Finance. Settlement with the Revenue Commissioners The Committee had before it a further letter from a taxpayer who was dissatisfied with the result of his dealings with the Revenue Commissioners and the Ombudsman. It was agreed that the Chairman and Deputies Ó Caoláin and McGuinness would meet to discuss their meetings with the Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners and the Ombudsman on this issue and would report back to the Committee at its next meeting. Travel proposals The Committee had before it an invitation sent to the Chairman to attend the 4th Munich Economic Summit entitled “Social Union, Migration and the EU Constitution: Integration at Risk” to be held in Munich on 9th and 10th June 2005. It was agreed that the convenors would notify the Clerk of the names of one Government and one Opposition member who will attend on behalf of the Committee. Deputy O’Keeffe raised the possibility of investigating the banking structure of New Zealand. It was agreed the Clerk would investigate the matter at a suitable date during the year. IFSRA’s draft Consumer Protection Code The Committee noted the publication by the IFSRA of a draft consumer protection code, a consultation paper and a press release on the matter. 4.Selection of a consultant to prepare a Report on the Policy of Commercial Banks concerning Customer Charges and Interest Rates The Chairman reported, as agreed at the last meeting, that a request for tender for a consultant to prepare a report on the policy of commercial banks concerning customer charges and interest rates had issued. Three tenders had been received which were summarised and circulated to members at the meeting. Discussion ensued. It was agreed that: (i)the report should be an interim report, (ii)the members should not be contacted by the consultant selected in the course of the drafting of the report as the draft report would be discussed with the consultant at a future meeting of the Committee, (iii)Tender A be approved as the consultant selected by the Committee. 5.Annual Report The Committee had before it a draft Annual Report for 2004 for consideration. It was agreed that the report by the Committee on its procedures and its role generally, required by Standing Orders to be made at least once in each year to the Committees on Procedure and Privileges, be included in the Annual Report. It was agreed that the minutes of proceedings of the Joint Committee, required by Standing Orders to be laid from time to time before the Houses, be included in the Annual Report. It was agreed that the draft Annual Report be adopted as the Annual Report of the Committee for 2004. The Committee noted that, in accordance with Standing Orders, the Report must be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas. 6.Work Programme 2005 This item was deferred to the next meeting of the Committee. 7.Any other business There was no other business. 8.Adjournment The Committee adjourned at 4.25 p.m. sine die. ________________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 16th March, 2005. Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 16th March, 2005The Joint Committee met at 2.10 p.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies John Cregan and Senators Joe O’Toole and Mary White. *Deputy Ring substituted for Deputy McGrath for part of the meeting. **Deputy Dan Wallace substituted for Deputy Cregan. ***Senator Leydon substituted for Senator White. 2.Minutes of meeting of 16th February 2005 Minutes of the meeting of 16th February 2005 were agreed. 3.Correspondence EU Scrutiny The Committee had before it a list of the documents and proposals considered, and the decisions taken, by the Sub-Committee on European Scrutiny at its meeting of 17th February. The Committee agreed none of the proposals considered by the Sub-Committee warranted scrutiny by it. Private Submission The Committee had before it a private submission from an insurance broker regarding that broker’s experience dealing with the IFSRA. It was agreed that the submission be forwarded to the IFSRA seeking the IFSRA to respond to the issues raised in the submission. Decentralisation The Committee had before it a letter dated 21 February 2005 and property status report from the OPW and a letter dated 15th March 2005 from the Department’s Secretary to the Decentralisation Implementation Group (DIG) clarifying the position in relation to the provision of the monthly reports. The Chairman mentioned that he had met with the Secretary of the DIG before the meeting and discussed how best to obtain the information required by the Committee. It was agreed that the secretariat would itemise the proposals suggested by members and the Chairman would speak to the Secretary of the DIG again and ask him to incorporate the points raised by the members into future reports. Settlement with the Revenue Commissioners The Chairman advised members that a further faxsimile had been received from a taxpayer who was dissatisfied with the result of his dealings with the Revenue Commissioners and the Ombudsman. The Chairman said while he and Deputies Ó Caoláin and McGuinness had met briefly, they had not yet concluded their consideration of the matter and would report back to the Committee. Statutory Instruments The Committee had before it three statutory instruments from the Department of Finance. The 21 day review period did not apply to these Statutory Instruments. The Committee agreed not to consider: S.I. 851 of 2004 entitled European Communities (Mutual Assistance for the Recovery of Claims relating to certain Levies, Duties, Taxes and other Measures) (Amendment) Regulations 2004. S.I. 81 of 2005 entitled Finance Act 2004 (Section 91) (Deferred Surrender to Central Fund) Order 2005. S.I. 84 of 2005 entitled Oireachtas (Ministerial and Parliamentary Offices) (Secretarial Allowance) Regulations 2005. With reference to S.I. 81 of 2005, it was agreed to seek a report on under-spending under each Deprtment’s subhead and on the extent to which projects under different subheads are on budget and on target. Message from the IFSRA The committee noted an e-mail from the IFSRA regarding the commencement of a public consultation process on the framework of standards for testing the competence and probity of directors and senior managers of financial services forms. It was agreed to seek clarification from the IFSRA on whether the consultation process was limited to personnel assuming future roles as directors and managers or if it also applied to existing directors and managers. 4.Travel Proposals 4th Munich Economic Summit - Munich It was agreed at the meeting of 16th February to authorise two members to attend the 4th Munich Economic Summit entitled “Europe and the Lisbon goals: are we half way there?” to be held in Munich on 9th and 10th June 2005. It was agreed the Committee would be represented by Deputies Michael Finneran and Joan Burton. It was agreed that the Committee, in its work programme, has prioritised economic development and also the issue of the euro in the economic life of the State, it is directly linked to the remit of the Committee. The Committee agreed that economy class travel was practical and reasonable subject to the fares being fully refundable in the event of a cancellation. The Committee agreed that an allocation from the travel budget of €950 for each member be sought from the Working Group of Committee Chairmen. “European economic policy: a National and European perspective” - Brussels The Committee had before it an invitation from the European Parliament which had been forwarded to the Committee from the Ceann Comhairle and sought a delegation, of at least 2 members, to attend an inter-parliamentary debate entitled “European economic policy: a National and European perspective” to be held in Brussels on 25th April 2005. It was agreed that the reply to the questionnaire attached to the invitation, which had been completed by the Department of Finance, be sent to the Committee for their views as there has not been time to do so before the initial deadline for receipt of replies. It was agreed that the Committee should be represented by three members at the debate. The convenors were asked to forward their nominations to the Clerk as soon as possible in view of the timeframe involved. It was agreed that the Committee, in its work programme, has prioritised economic development and that it is necessary for this Committee to interact and share ideas with other policy makers and experts whose views can help inform our own consideration of matters within its remit. The Committee agreed that economy class travel was practical and reasonable subject to the fares being fully refundable in the event of a cancellation. The Committee agreed that an allocation from the travel budget of €800 for each member be sought from the Working Group of Committee Chairmen. 5.Consideration of the draft Interim Report on the Policy of Commercial Banks concerning Customer Charges and Interest Rates The Committee heard a presentation from the consultant appointed to prepare the draft interim Report. It was agreed that the draft report did not at this point represent the views of any member of the Committee in part or in whole and that the document was subject to discussion, debate, amendment, clarification and ultimately agreement by the Members. Discussion ensued. It was agreed that: (i)all points raised at the meeting would be noted, (ii)any amendments would be highlighted to distinguish them from the original text, (iii)the draft report be given to the press, (iv)any Member who wished to make further submissions, amendments or additions to the text should forward them to the Clerk before the end of March, (v)the text would be examined paragraph by paragraph when discussed again, (vi)the revised draft be produced in early April with a view to finalising it when discussed again. 6.Further scrutiny of EU Proposals COM (2004) 103 and 104 This item was deferred to the next meeting of the Committee. 7.Draft Work Programme 2005 This item was deferred to the next meeting of the Committee. 8.Any other business There was no other business. 9.Adjournment The Committee adjourned at 4.14 p.m. sine die. ________________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 23rd March, 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 23rd March, 2005The Joint Committee met at 11.12 a.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Ó Caoláin. *Deputy Deenihan substituted for Deputy McGrath. **Deputy Ferris substituted for Deputy Ó Caoláin. ***Deputy McEllistrim substituted for Deputy McGuinness. 2.Minutes of meeting of 16th March 2005 Minutes of the meeting of 16th March 2005 were agreed. Senator O’Toole asked for an update on the fact finding trip to New Zealand to be brought forward for the next meeting. 3.Correspondence Statutory Instruments The Committee had before it three statutory instruments from the Department of Finance. The 21 day review period did not apply to these Statutory Instruments. The Committee agreed not to consider: S.I. 63 of 2005 entitled European Communities (Distance Marketing of Consumer Financial Services) (Amendment) Regulations 2005. S.I. 13 of 2005 entitled European Communities (Insurance Mediation) Regulations 2005. S.I. 123 of 2005 entitled Finance Act 1999 (Commencement of Section 98A) Order 2005. EU Scrutiny The Committee had before it a list of the documents and proposals considered, and the decisions taken, by the Sub-Committee on European Scrutiny at its meeting of 9th March. The Committee agreed none of the proposals considered by the Sub-Committee warranted scrutiny by it. Reply from IFSRA regarding the Value of Uncashed Bank Drafts The Committee noted a revised reply from the IFSRA in response to a point raised by Deputy Timmins at a meeting of the Committee with the IFSRA on 20 May 2004 regarding the value of uncashed bank drafts in the banking system. The Committee agreed that a copy should be forwarded to Deputy Timmins and also to an official in the Dormant Accounts Unit of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs who had sought a copy of the revised reply. Travel Proposal — Meeting of the Temporary Committee on Policy Challenges and Budgetary Means of the Enlarged Union 2007 — 2013, Brussels The Committee had before it an invitation from the European Parliament which had been forwarded to the Committee from the Ceann Comhairle and sought a delegation, of a maximum of 4 members, to attend a meeting of the Temporary Committee on Policy Challenges and Budgetary Means of the Enlarged Union 2007 — 2013 to be held in Brussels on 4th and 5th April 2005. It was agreed that the Committee should be represented by 4 members at the meeting. The convenors were asked to forward their nominations to the Clerk immediately in view of the timeframe involved. It was agreed that as the mandate of the temporary committee is to define the European Parliament’s negotiating position in the debate on the next Financial Perspective it is important a delegation should attend to improve understanding of the means to be allocated to the EU in the future. In addition, the Committee agreed the draft work programme prioritises economic development and it is necessary for the Committee to interact and share ideas with other policy makers and experts whose views can help inform consideration of matters within the Committee’s remit. The Committee agreed that economy class travel was practical and reasonable subject to the fares being fully refundable in the event of a cancellation. The Committee agreed that an allocation from the travel budget of €800 for each member be sought from the Working Group of Committee Chairmen. Questionnaire for trip to Brussels on 25th April [“European economic policy: a National and European perspective”] At the meeting of 16th March, it was agreed that the reply to the questionnaire attached to the above invitation, which had been completed by the Department of Finance, be sent to the Committee for their views as there has not been time to do so before the initial deadline for receipt of replies. Members were asked to submit comments or amendments to the Clerk before or at today’s meeting. The Chairman reported no comments had been received. 4.Draft Work Programme 2005 The Committee formally agreed the draft Work Programme be adopted as the Work Programme of the Joint Committee for 2005 and, in accordance with Standing Orders, that it would be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas. It was agreed that the Work Programme may be amended or updated as matters arise throughout the year. To assist members, it was also agreed that a schedule be drawn up listing the correspondence to be discussed at each meeting and the proposed action to be taken. The schedule would be sent to each member along with the agenda and relevant papers and would speed up the correspondence to be discussed at each meeting. 5.Freedom of Information Act 1997 The Chairman advised the members all Ministers have now submitted their reports to the Committee under section 32 of the Freedom of Information Act. It was agreed that a letter be sent to the Information Commissioner requesting her to produce a report in accordance with section 32 for the Committee to consider. The meeting was suspended by agreement from 11.30 a.m. to 11.32 a.m. 6.Discussion with the Chair of the Expenditure Review Central Steering Committee The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Tom Considine, Secretary General at the Department of Finance and Chairman of the Expenditure Review Central Steering Committee on the Expenditure Review Initiative. Mr. Considine was accompanied by Mr. David Doyle, Second Secretary General, Department of Finance, Mr. Seán Gorman, Secretary General, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mr. Tom Heffernan, Principal Officer, Department of Finance, and Mr. Conor McGinn, Assistant Principal, Department of Finance. Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew. The meeting was suspended by agreement from 12.48 p.m. to 12.50 p.m. 7.Discussion with the Irish Farmers Association (IFA) and representatives of the farmer creditors of Tralee Beef and Lamb The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Ruaidhri Deasy, Deputy President of the IFA, on issues surrounding the closure of Tralee Beef and Lamb. Further presentations were also made by Mr. Michael Berkery, General Secretary, IFA, Mr. Donal Kelly, Munster Vice-President of the IFA, Mr. Kevin Kinsella, Director of Livestock of the IFA, Mr. Phil Healy, President of Kerry IFA and a framer creditor and Mr. Bobby O’Sullivan, farmer creditor. Discussion ensued. It was agreed that the IFA would forward more information in relation to the issues discussed. It was also agreed a delegation of the Committee would meet with the two banks in question to discuss the matters raised by the witnesses at the meeting. The witnesses withdrew. 8.Any other business There was no other business. 9.Adjournment The Committee adjourned at 1.57 p.m. until 6th April. ________________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 6th April, 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 6th April, 2005The Joint Committee met at 11.10 a.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
*Deputy Carty substituted for Deputy Finneran for part of the meeting. **Deputies Hayes, Keogh and Ring substituted for Deputy McGrath for parts of the meeting. 2.Minutes of meeting of 23rd March 2005 Minutes of the meeting of 23rd March 2005 were agreed. 3.Correspondence Letter from Senator Joe O’Toole The Committee had before it a letter dated 21st March from Senator Joe O’Toole regarding the use of taxpayers’ money to fund a school and the operation by that school of a tax refund system. It was agreed to seek the views of the Minister for Finance (especially in the context of the review of tax reliefs being undertaken by his Department) and from the Revenue Commissioners on the issues raised in the second part of the letter. EU Scrutiny The Committee had before it a list of the documents and proposals considered, and the decisions taken, by the Sub-Committee on European Scrutiny at its meeting of 24th March. The Committee agreed to scrutinise COM(2004)509 and that a briefing note should be sought on the proposal from the Department of Finance. It was agreed that none of the other proposals considered by the Sub-Committee on 24th March warranted scrutiny by it. Letter from the IBOA — The Finance Union The Committee had before it a letter dated 24th March 2005 from the IBOA — The Finance Union regarding the loss of over 2,100 jobs and the closure of branches by the Bank of Ireland. It was agreed to invite representatives of the IBOA to meet the Committee at a suitable opportunity. Travel Proposal The Committee had before it an outline of flight prices has been circulated for a visit to New Zealand by the Committee later this year. It was agreed that the 2 convenors and Clerk would meet to discuss a suitable time to travel and would report back the Committee. 4.Scrutiny of EU Proposals The Committee had before it information notes on COM(2004)273 (re: the establishment of a harmonised framework for reinsurance supervision in the EU), COM(2004)103 and COM(2004)104 (re: investigations conducted by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF)). In relation to all three proposals, the Committee agreed that it was satisfied with the proposals; the negotiations thereon and the information provided by the Department of Finance. The Committee made no recommendations in relation to the proposals and agreed to lay reports on the proposals before both Houses of the Oireachtas. It was agreed a briefing note be sought from the IFSRA on the general re-insurance industry. The meeting was suspended by agreement from 11.48 a.m. to 11.49 a.m. The Committee then heard presentations from Mr. John Burke, Ms. Niamh Campbell and Mr. Ray Kavanagh from the Department of Finance on COM(2004)227(re: amendment of general arrangements for products subject to excise duty and on the holding and movement of same), COM(2004)641 (re: implementation measures for a common system of VAT) and COM(2004)728 (re: the simplifying of VAT obligations, etc.) respectively. Discussion ensued. The Committee asked the officials to inform it of developments on these proposals. The meeting was suspended by agreement from 12.26 p.m. to 12.27 p.m. 5.Discussion with representatives of National Irish Bank The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Don Price, Deputy Chairman of National Irish Bank, on issues surrounding the Report of the Inspectors appointed (under section 8 of the Companies Act 1990) to investigate the affairs of National Irish Bank Limited and National Irish Bank Financial Services Limited. Mr. Price was accompanied by Mr. John Trethowan, Chief Executive Officer of National Irish Bank. Discussion ensued. Mr. Price agreed to make copies of his presentation available to the Committee. It was agreed to write to the Director of Corporate Enforcement and the IFSRA for their views on the Report of the Inspectors appointed to investigate the affairs of National Irish Bank Limited and National Irish Bank Financial Services Limited. 6.Any other business The Chairman advised that representatives of the Standards in Public Office had intended to meet the Committee at the next meeting but could not now intend. Preliminary indications were that the IBOA — The Finance Union would be in a position to attend in their place. The Chairman also reminded members to forward their comments on the draft interim report on the Policy of Commercial Banks concerning Customer Charges and Interest Rates to the Clerk before Friday 15th April. The Committee agreed to forward a copy of the transcripts of this meeting to the consultant for inclusion in the draft report. 7.Adjournment The Committee adjourned at 1.43 p.m. until 13th April. ________________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 13th April, 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 13th April, 2005The Joint Committee met at 3.09 p.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
2.Minutes of meeting of 6th April 2005 Minutes of the meeting of 6th April 2005 were agreed. 3.Correspondence Invitation to OECD Conference in Paris on 2 & 3 May The Committee noted an invitation to attend an OECD Conference entitled “Fuelling the Future: Security, Stability, Development” in Paris on 2 and 3 May 2005. The Committee agreed, as the subject matter is outside its remit, to forward the invitation to the Joint Committee on Environment and Local Government. Letter from Deputy O’Keeffe re: Tralee Beef and Lamb The Committee noted a letter dated 5 April from Deputy O’Keeffe regarding Tralee Beef and Lamb. It was agreed that the Chairman, Deputies O’Keeffe and McGrath and Senator O’Toole would meet the representatives of the two Banks concerned and would report back to the Committee. E-mail from German Embassy re: visit by German Finance Committee on 9th June The Committee noted an e-mail from the German Embassy regarding a proposed visit by the German Finance Committee to Ireland on 9th June. The Committee agreed that a full meeting of the Committee would take place on that afternoon. Invitation to EPRI Knowledge workshop The Committee noted an invitation to attend an EPRI Knowledge Conference in Brussels on 23 and 24 May 2005. The Committee agreed, as the subject matter is outside its remit, to forward the invitation to the Joint Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources whose members had previously attended similar workshops. 4.Discussion with representatives of the IBOA - The Finance Union The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Larry Broderick, General Secretary of the IBOA — The Finance Union, on issues surrounding the loss of over 2,100 jobs in Bank of Ireland and the closure of a number of the Bank’s branches. Mr. Broderick was accompanied by Mr. Marty Whelan, Communications Manager, Mr. Ciaran Mahon, BOI Officer, Ms. Eleanor Dunne and Ms. Bernie O’Reilly of the BOI Executive Committee. Discussion ensued. It was agreed that, as the IBOA — The Finance Union had sought this meeting with the Committee, the Committee would write to the Bank of Ireland offering their representatives the opportunity to avail of a similar meeting with the Committee if they so wished. 5.Any other business There was no other business. 6.Adjournment The Committee adjourned at 4.35 p.m. until 27th April. ________________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 11th May, 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 11th May, 2005The Joint Committee met at 3.14 p.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Michael Finneran, John McGuinness and M.J. Nolan. *Deputy Andrews substituted for Deputy Finneran. 2.Minutes of meeting of 13th April 2005 Minutes of the meeting of 13th April 2005 were agreed. 3.Correspondence Report on Hearing of the Chairs of the Budgetary Committees The Committee noted a report from the delegation which attended, on behalf of the Committee, the Hearing of the Chairs of the Budgetary Committees in Brussels on 23 November 2004. Letter from Deputy Ned O’Keeffe The Committee had before it a letter dated 11 April 2005 from Deputy O’Keeffe regarding the flood plan for Fermoy. The Committee agreed to send a formal request to the Minister of State at the Department of Finance with responsibility for the OPW, Mr. Tom Parlon, T.D., to meet with a deputation from Fermoy within 3 weeks on the matter. EU Scrutiny The Committee had before it two lists of the proposals considered and decisions taken by the Sub-Committee on European Scrutiny at its meetings of 14th and 28th April. It was agreed that none of the proposals considered by the Sub-Committee on 14th and 28th April warranted scrutiny by the Committee. Statutory Instruments The Committee had before it 19 Statutory Instruments numbered 915 of 2004, 146 to 157 inclusive, 178, 181, 190, 191, 225 and 227 of 2005 from the Department of Finance. The 21 day review period did not apply to these Statutory Instruments. The Committee agreed not to consider these Statutory Instruments, and agreed (i) in relation to the sanctions and control of money transfers referred to in S.I.s 146 to 157 of 2005, to seek clarification from the Department of Finance as to whether similar restrictions apply to the transfer of moneys within Ireland, and (ii) in relation to S.I. 178 of 2005, that the issue of disabled drivers and passengers, being an issue listed in the Committee’s Work Programme, would be discussed before the Summer recess and that a full information note be sought from the Department in advance of the Committee’s discussion on the matter. Letters from Joint Committee on Education and Science and Revenue Commissioners in response to letter from Senator Joe O’Toole The Committee had before it two letters from the Revenue Commissioners dated 3 May 2005 and the Joint Committee on Education and Science dated 19 April 2005 in relation to a letter dated 21 March 2005 from Senator Joe O’Toole regarding a school in Donnybrook. The Committee noted the contents of the letters and agreed to forward information received from the Revenue Commissioners to the Joint Committee on Education and Science. Reply from the IFSRA re: NIB Report The Committee noted a reply from the IFSRA dated 26 April 2005 regarding the NIB Report. Letter from Minister for Finance The Committee noted a reply from the Minister for Finance dated 29 April 2005 regarding the Irish Charities Tax Reform Group and Nationwide Health Solutions Ltd. Letter from Irish Writers Association The Committee noted a letter from the Irish Writers’ Union regarding tax exemptions for artists. Senator O’Toole stated he declared that he is a beneficiary of those exemptions. The Committee agreed to consider the issue in early July in the context of the Committee making a submission on the Minister of Finance’s Review of Tax Reliefs and Exemptions for High Earners. It was agreed to write to the Minister requesting that the information obtained to date be forwarded to the Committee to assist it in its consideration of the issue. Decentralisation The Committee had before it a reply from the Secretary of the Decentralisation Implementation Group (DIG) outlining progress to date. The Committee welcomed the report and asked for subsequent monthly reports to include: (i) performance against targets for assignments, (ii) the number of applications received to be shown alongside the information on CAF posts and assignments, (iii) the percentage of staff already assigned which are from applicants already based in Dublin, and (iv) to include information on all bodies (e.g. Combat Poverty Agency) signalled for decentralisation. The Committee also agreed that the new Chairman of the DIG, Mr. Finbarr Flood, be invited to meet the Committee at a suitable opportunity. Letter from Bank of Ireland The Committee noted a reply from the Bank of Ireland dated 6 May 2005 in response to the Committee’s invitation for the Bank to meet with the Committee if the Bank so wished. 4.Consideration of the draft Interim Report on the Policy of Commercial Banks on Bank Charges and Interest Rates The Committee heard a brief presentation from the consultant on the amendments made to the original draft of the interim Report. Discussion ensued. It was agreed that members who wish to make further submissions, amendments or additions to the text should forward them to the Clerk immediately to allow the consultant to produce a further draft with a view to completing the report with a minimum of discussion when next discussed. 5.Any other business There was no other business. 6.Adjournment The Committee adjourned at 4.32 p.m. sine die. ________________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 18th May, 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 18th May, 2005The Joint Committee met at 11.10 a.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin and Senator Joe O’Toole. *Senator Morrissey substituted for Senator Mansergh. 2.Minutes of meeting of 11th May 2005 Minutes of the meeting of 11th May 2005 were agreed. 3.Correspondence EU Scrutiny The Committee had before it a list of the proposals considered and decisions taken by the Sub-Committee on European Scrutiny at its meeting of 11th May. It was agreed that none of the proposals considered by the Sub-Committee on 11th May warranted scrutiny by the Committee. Reply from the IFSRA re: Regulatory Authority of the Financial Regulator The Committee noted a reply from the IFSRA dated 11 May 2005 regarding the regulatory authority of the Financial Regulator. Invitation to Chair to attend Annual Meeting of Committee on Budgets and the Chairs of Budgetary Committees of National Parliaments of the EU on 16th June 2005 in Brussels The Committee had before it an invitation to the Chairman from the European Parliament to attend an Annual Meeting of Committee on Budgets and the Chairs of Budgetary Committees of National Parliaments of the EU on 16th June 2005 in Brussels. It was agreed that the Vice-Chairman, Deputy Finneran, would attend. It was also agreed that as the role of the Committee is to review major areas of policy falling within the remit of the Minister for Finance, this area of policy development would fall under that Department’s remit. The Committee agreed attendance at this meeting would afford the Committee an opportunity to outline its priorities in relation to forthcoming EU Budgets and it is important a representative would attend to improve the Committee’s understanding of the means to be allocated to the EU in the future. The Committee agreed that economy class travel was practical and reasonable subject to the fares being fully refundable in the event of a cancellation and that the Clerk would make the necessary arrangements. Statutory Instrument The Committee noted Statutory Instrument No. 233 of 2005 entitled Prize Bonds (Amendment) Regulations 2005 from the National Treasury Management Agency. Release of correspondence The Committee agreed that in future all correspondence noted by the Committee, excluding that of a personal or private nature, could be released on request. 4.Discussion with officials from the Departments of the Taoiseach and Finance on Delivering Better Government The Committee was joined by officials from the Departments of the Taoiseach and Finance to discuss Delivering Better Government, with particular focus on the Strategic Management Initiative and Public Service Modernisation. An introduction was given by Mr. Dermot McCarthy, Secretary General, Department of the Taoiseach, followed by a presentation by Mr. Philip Kelly, Assistant Secretary, Department of the Taoiseach and Ms. Carmel Keane, Head of Corporate Services, Department of Finance. Also in attendance were: Mr. Colm Butler, Ms. Eileen Kehoe and Ms. Triona Quill, Principal Officers, Department of the Taoiseach, Mr. Tony Gallagher, Principal Officer and Mr. Robert Pye, Assistant Principal, Department of Finance. Discussion ensued. The Chairman indicated that the strategy statements of both Departments would be discussed by the Committee before the Summer recess. 5.Any other business There was no other business. 6.Adjournment The Committee adjourned at 1.50 p.m. until 25th May 2005. ________________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 25th May, 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 25th May, 2005The Joint Committee met at 2.38 p.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Ned O’Keeffe. 2.Minutes of meeting of 18th May 2005 Minutes of the meeting of 18th May 2005 were agreed. 3.Correspondence Decentralisation The Committee noted an updated property status report from the Decentralisation Implementation Group. Statutory Instrument The Committee noted Statutory Instrument No. 234 of 2005 entitled Superannuation (Designation of Approved Organisations) Regulations, 2005 from the Department of Finance. Invitation to OECD Conference in Paris on 16th June The Committee noted an invitation to attend an OECD Conference entitled “Growth in Service: Fostering Employment, Productivity and Innovation” in Paris on 16th June 2005. The Committee agreed, as the subject matter is outside its remit, to forward the invitation to the Joint Committee on Enterprise and Small Business. Draft letter from the Chairman to the Minister for Finance regarding a settlement with the Revenue Commissioners The Committee had before it a draft letter from the Chairman to the Minister for Finance regarding a settlement with the Revenue Commissioners arising from a investigation by the Ombudsman. The Committee agreed the letter should be redrafted to give greater detail on the individual’s case and to clearly advise the Minister that it is the Committee’s view that the case should have been resolved in accordance with the Ombudsman’s original recommendation. Letter from the Competition Authority The Committee noted a letter dated 13th May from Mr. John Fingleton, Chairperson of the Competition Authority, regarding firstly, comments made against the Authority by a member of the Committee at the meeting of 11th May 2005, and secondly, to invite the Chairman to meet with him to discuss the draft interim report on bank charges and interest rates. It was agreed that the Chairman would write to Mr. Fingleton assuring him that the view expressed was not that of the broad membership of the Committee and also to arrange to meet with him at a suitable opportunity to discuss the draft interim report. 4.Consideration of the draft Interim Report on the Policy of Commercial Banks on Bank Charges and Interest Rates The Committee heard a brief presentation from the consultant on the amendments made to the second revised draft of the interim Report. Discussion ensued. It was agreed that the consultant would produce a further draft with a view to completing the report with a minimum of discussion when next discussed. 5.Discussion with representatives of the Standards in Public Office Commission The Committee was joined by representatives of the Standards in Public Office Commission regarding the role and function of the Commission. A presentation was given by Mr. Justice Matthew P. Smith, Chairman and he was accompanied by Mr. John Purcell, Comptroller and Auditor General, Ms. Emily O’Reilly, Ombudsman, Mr. Liam Kavanagh, Commission Member, and Mr. Brian Allen, Commission Secretary. Discussion ensued. 6.Any other business There was no other business. 7.Adjournment The Committee adjourned at 6.01 p.m. until 9th June 2005. ________________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 9th June, 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeThursday, 9th June, 2005The Joint Committee met at 2.14 p.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Joan Burton, John Cregan and Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin and Senators Joe O’Toole, John Paul Phelan and Mary White. *Senator Glynn substituted for Senator White. 2.Minutes of meeting of 25th May 2005 Minutes of the meeting of 25th May 2005 were agreed. 3.Correspondence Statutory Instruments The Committee noted 54 Statutory Instruments No. 568 and 589 to 641 of 2004 entitled Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) and (Living Over The Shop)(Qualifying Streets) Orders 2004, and Statutory Instrument No. 642 of 2005 entitled Finance Act 2004 (Section 26) (Commencement of Certain Provisions Order) 2004 from the Department of Finance. Reply from the IFSRA re: reinsurance industry The Committee noted a reply and briefing note dated 19th May from Dr. Liam O’Reilly, Chief Executive of the IFSRA regarding the reinsurance industry. Report on attendance on Conference on “Strategies for an Aging World” The Committee noted a report from the delegation which attended, on behalf of the Committee, a Conference on “Strategies for an Aging World”, held in London on 17th-19th November 2004. Report on attendance on Conference on “European Economic Policy: a National and European Perspective” The Committee noted a report from the delegation which attended, on behalf of the Committee, a Conference on “European Economic Policy: a National and European Perspective” held in Brussels in 25th April 2005. Draft letter from the Chairman to the Minister for Finance regarding a settlement with the Revenue Commissioners The Committee had before it a revised draft letter from the Chairman to the Minister for Finance regarding a settlement with the Revenue Commissioners arising from an investigation by the Ombudsman. The Committee agreed the letter should issue to the Minister. Update on Item no. 2005/0094 from 25th May, Letter from Deputy Ned O’Keeffe re: flood plan for Fermoy The Chairman advised the Committee that the Minister of State at the Department of Finance with responsibility for the OPW, Mr. Tom Parlon, T.D., had met with a delegation from Fermoy regarding the flood plan, as requested by the Committee. 4.Consideration of the draft Interim Report on the Policy of Commercial Banks on Bank Charges and Interest Rates The Committee heard a brief presentation from the consultant on the amendments made to the third revised draft of the interim Report. Discussion ensued. The Committee thanked Mr. James Dorgan, Consultant, for his work on the draft interim report. It was agreed that the draft interim report, subject to the changes agreed by the Committee at the meeting, be adopted as the interim report of the Committee. The Committee agreed there would be a formal launch of the interim report on Wednesday 15th June at 2.30 p.m. and that the interim report would be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas and also placed on the Oireachtas website. It was further agreed to print 300 copies of the interim report and to forward copies to the Competition Authority, the Financial Regulator, the Department of Finance and to Members of both Houses of the Oireachtas. 5.Any other business There was no other business. 6.Adjournment The Committee adjourned at 2.55 p.m. until 22nd June 2005. ________________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 22nd June, 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeThursday, 22nd June, 2005The Joint Committee met at 3.09 p.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin and Ned O’Keeffe. 2.Minutes of meeting of 9th June 05 Minutes of the meeting of 9th June 2005 were agreed. 3.Correspondence •Decision of the Sub-Committee on EU Scrutiny on 2 June 2005. NOTED •Letter from the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement. NOTED •Letter from the Department of Finance in relation to the ongoing review of certain tax reliefs. NOTED, issue will be discussed after the Summer Recess •E-mail received re: Invitation to attend a conference in Washington on Tuesday 19th July 2005 (Reinventing Retirement Balance Risk). NOTED •Letter received from the Department of Finance regarding tax implications from the use of taxpayers’ money to fund a school. NOTED, agreed to be the Joint Committee on Education and Science 4.Discussion with representatives of the National Lottery Company Mr. Ray Bates, National Lottery Director made opening presentation. A question and answer session followed. Also in attendance from the National Lottery was Mr. Noel Browne, Chief Accountant. 5.Any other business There was no other business. 6.Adjournment The Committee adjourned at 5.14 p.m. until 29th June 2005. ________________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 29th June 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeThursday, 29th June, 2005The Joint Committee met at 12.03 a.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Richard Bruton. Also in attendance was Deputy Catherine Murphy. 2.Minutes of meeting of 22nd June 05 Minutes of the meeting of 22nd June 05 were agreed. 3.Correspondence •Decision of the Sub-Committee on EU Scrutiny on 16 June 05. NOTED •Letter (20/06/05) from the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority regarding regulatory authority of the financial regulator. NOTED •Letter (dated 21/05/06) from the Department of Finance in relation to the ongoing review of certain tax reliefs. NOTED. It was agreed that those who are due to appear before the Committee be informed in the formal letter of invitation, that: The names of the primary witnesses and their support personnel be informed to the Committee 24 hours before their scheduled appearance, and Should they wish to give an opening statement, such statement must be received by that time also. The meeting was suspended at 12.06 p.m. for a vote in the Dáil and resumed at 12.25 p.m. 4.Discussion with representatives from the Department of Finance regarding the Disabled Drivers and Passengers Scheme Ms Niamh Campbell, Dept of Finance made opening presentation. A question and answer session followed. Also in attendance was Mr. John Burke and Mr. David O’Sullivan, Department of Finance, Mr. Paddy Barrett and Mr. Ciarán Coyle, Revenue Commissioners. 5.Any other business It was agreed that the work schedule be amended as follows: 20th July, 2005:Strategy statements for the Departments of Taoiseach and Finance be put back to 27th July, 2005; and 27th July, 2005:National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO) Bill, 2002-Committee Stage be brought forward to 20th July, 2002. The amended work programme should issue with the next agenda. 6.Adjournment The Committee adjourned at 1.58 p.m. until 13th July 2005. ________________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 13th July 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 13th July, 2005The Joint Committee met at 11.07 a.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Caoimhghín O Caolain. Also in attendance were Deputy Catherine Murphy, Finian McGrath and Dan Boyle. 2.Minutes of meeting of 29th June 05 Minutes of the meeting of 29th June 05 were agreed. 3.Correspondence Invitation (29/06/05) to Reinventing Retirement: Balancing Risk. Noted Letter from the Combat Poverty Agency (30/06/05) regarding Ending Child Poverty in Ireland Policy Statement Noted Letter from the Dept of Finance (30/06/05) attaching a report on SI 81 of 2005 as requested by the Committee Noted Letter from the Dept of Finance (30/06/05) acknowledging receipt of the Interim Report on the Policy of Commercial Banks concerning Customer Charges and Interim Rates Noted INSURANCE UPDATE — newsletter from the Irish Insurance Federation Noted Letter from the Anglo Irish Bank (05/07/05) regarding Tralee Beef and Lamb Agreed that the meeting be scheduled for the morning of 26th or 27th July. The interested members should meet an hour and a half beforehand to brief themselves. Letter from the Dept of Finance (04/07/05) regarding an invitation to the Chairman of the Decentralisation Implementation Group to come before the Committee Agreed that the Joint Committee meet the Department official in September. Letter from the Clerk to the JC on European Affairs (06/07/05) attaching a calendar of meetings during the UK Presidency Noted Letter from the Bank of Ireland Group (27/06/05) regarding Tralee Beef and Lamb Those interested will meet before lunch to brief themselves on the issues before proceeding to meet with the bank. EU Scrutiny Decision of the Sub-Committee on EU Scrutiny on 29 June 05. Proposal referred to the Committee for information. COM(2005)253 Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council of amending Directive 2004/39/EC on markets in financial instruments, as regards the disabled. Noted Statutory Instruments 6 Statutory Instruments numbered 250-255 of 2005. 250 of 2005:Validaion Act 2001 (Global Validation) (Appointment) (BT Ireland) Order 2005 251 of 2005: Validation Act 2001 (Global Validation) (Appointment) (Meteor Mobile Communications Limited) Order 2005 252 of 2005: Validation Act 2001 (Global Validation) (Appointment) (o2 Ireland) Order 2005 253 of 2005: Validation Act 2001 (Global Validation) (Appointment) (Vodafone Ireland) Order 2005 254 of 2005: Validation Act 2001 (Global Validation) (Appointment) (Eircom) Order 2005 255 of 2005: Validation Act 2001 (Global Validation) (Appointment) (Bord Gáis Éireann) Order 2005 Noted, but a briefing note should be sought from the Department of Finance. SI No. 321 of 2005 Value-Added Tax (Short-Term Sector Or Holiday Sector) Regulations 2005 The Department of Finance should provide a briefing note to the Joint Committee. SI No. 284, 291, 286, 317, 329, 330, 278 of 2005 284 of 2005: Finance Act 2005 (Commencement of Certain Provisions of Chapter 2 of Part 2) Order 2005 291 of 2005: Finance Act 2005 (Commencement of Section 87) Order 2005 286 of 2005: Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (sections 898H, 898I, 898L and 898M)(Commencement) Order 2005 317 of 2005: European Communities (Taxation of Savings Income in the form of Interest Payments) Regulations 2005 329 of 2005: Central Bank Act 1942 (Financial Services Ombudsman Council) Levies and Fee Regulations 2005 330 of 2005: Central Bank Act 1942 (Financial Services Ombudsman Council) Levies and Fee Regulations (No 2) 2005 278 of 2005: Members of the Oireachtas and Ministerial and Parliamentary Offices (Allowances and Salaries)(Amendment) Order 2005 The Department of Finance should provide a briefing note to the Joint Committee on the following: SI 329 and 330: How the levies to fund the financial service ombudsman’s council are derived; SI 284: What do the figures in the explanatory note refer to and why is there on rate for business and one for other use? Does it relate to a bag or tonne of coal? What will the effect on poorer sectors of the community be? What will it add to a bag of coal? How will it be policed? On SI 329 and 330, the Chairman should also write to the consumer director of the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority on the outcome of its study of endowment mortgages. The meeting was suspended at 13.14 p.m. and resumed at 13.38 p.m. in Committee Room 2 4.Discussion with the Ombudsman regarding the Annual Report of the Ombudsman, 2004 The Ombudsman, Ms. Emily Reilly made an opening statement. A question and answer session followed. 5.Discussion with the Information Commissioner regarding the Annual Report of the Information Commissioner, 2004 The Information Commissioner, Ms. Emily Reilly made an opening statement. A question and answer session followed. 6.Adjournment There being no further business the Committee adjourned until 27th July at 3pm. The Dail Select Committee will meet at 3pm on 20th July to consider National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO) Bill, 2002-Committee Stage. The Committee adjourned at 15.17 p.m. until 27th July 2005. ______________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 27th July 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday 27th July 05The Joint Committee met at 3.09 p.m., a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Joan Bruton, Paul McGrath and Paddy McHugh. Deputy Catherine Murphy was also in attendance. 2.Minutes of meeting of 13th July 05 Minutes of the meeting of 13 July 05 were agreed. 3.Correspondence •Letter from the Clerk of the European Affairs Committee regarding SI No 317 of 2005. NOTED •Letter from the Industry & Parliament Trust Fellow’s Dinner Club. NOTED •Letter from Minister Brian Cowan regarding a case involving Mr. Edward Kearns & the Revenue Commissioners. NOTED Copy should issue to the tax payer •Letter from the Clerk of the European Affairs Committee enclosing information on the Priorities for the UK Presidency of the EU 2005. NOTED •Invite from OECD to attend seminar on “China: Current Economic Policy Challenges” in Paris on the 6th October. NOTED •Booklet from the Combat Poverty Agency regarding Ending Child Poverty. NOTED •Department of Finance’s Statement of Strategy for 2005-2007. RELEVANT TO TODAY’S MEETING •Department of An Taoiseach’s Statement of Strategy for 2005-2007. RELEVANT TO TODAY’S MEETING •The Central Bank & Financial Services Authority of Ireland’s Annual Report for 2004. NOTED •Letter from The Competition Authority regarding the Interim Report of the Joint Committee on Finance and the Public Service on Bank Charges and Interest Rates. NOTED •Letter from Department of Finance regarding information sought by Members at the meeting of the 18th May 2005. NOTED •Letter from Department of Finance regarding the Presentation to be made to the Committee at it’s meeting of the 27th July on the Department’s Statement of Strategy. RELEVANT TO TODAY’S MEETING •Email from Rory O’Kelly from the Department of Finance regarding SI No’s 329 & 330 of 2005. NOTED •Email with attached letter from David O’Sullivan from the Department of Finance regarding SI No 284 of 2005 which relates to Coal Tax. NOTED •Email from David O’Sullivan from the Department of Finance with attached briefing note on SI No 321 of 2005 which relates to VAT Regulations. NOTED Statutory Instruments •S.I. 278 of 2005: Members of the Oireachtas and Ministerial and Parliamentary Offices (Allowances and Salaries (Amendment) Order 2005 S.I. No. 284 of 2005: Finance Act 2005 (Commencement of Certain Provisions of Chapter 2 of Part 2) Order 2005 S.I. No. 285 of 2005: Mineral Oil Tax (Amendment Regulations 2005 S.I. No. 286 of 2005: Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (sections 898H, 8981, 898J, 898L and 898M) (Commencement) Order 2005 S.I. No. 291 of 2005: Finance Act 2005 (Commencement of Section 87) Order2005 S.I. No. 329 of 2005: Central Bank Act 1942 (Financial Services Ombudsman Council) Levies and Fee Regulations 2005 S.I. No. 330 of 2005: Central Bank Act 1942 (Financial Services Ombudsman Council) Levies and Fee Regulations (No. 2) 2005 S.I. No. 568 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Carlow Town) Order 2004 S.I. No. 589 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal AReas) (Shannon, County Clare) Order 2004 S.I. No. 590 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Blackpool/Shandon, Cork) Order 2004 S.I. No. 591 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Cork city Docks Area) Order 2004 S.I. No. 592 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Bandon, County Cork) Order 2004 S.I. No. 593 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Cobh, County Cork) Orer 2004 S.I. No. 594 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Mallow, County Cork) Order 2004 S.I. No. 595 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Passage West, County Cork) Order 2004 S.I. No. 596 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Buncrana, County Donegal) Order 20004 S.I. No. 597 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Ballymun, Dublin) Order 2004 S.I. No. 598 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (H.A.R.P., Dublin) Order 2004 S.I. No. 599 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Inchichore/Kilmainham, Dublin) Order 2004 S.I. No. 600 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Liberties/Coombe, Dublin) Order 2004 S.I. No. 601 of 2004 taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (North East Inner city, Dublin) Order 2004 S.I. No. 602 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (O’Connell Street, Dublin) Order 2004 S.I. No. 603 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Tallaght, Dublin) Order 2004 S.I. No. 604 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Balbriggan, County Dublin) Order 2004 S.I. No. 605 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Blanchardstown, County jDublin) Order 2004 S.I. No. 606 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Clondalkin, County Dublin) Order 2004 S.I. No. 607 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Dun Laoghaire, County jDublin) Order 2004 S.I. No. 608 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Galway City) order 2004 S.I. No. 609 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying urban Renewal Areas) (Tuam, County JGalway) Order 2004 S.I. No. 610 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Tralee, County Kerry) Order 2004 S.I. No. 611 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Athy, County Kildare) Order 2004 S.I. No. 612 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Kildare Town) Order 2004 S.I. No. 613 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Kilkenny City) Order 2004 S.I. No. 614 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Portlaoise, County Laois) Order 2004 S.I. No. 615 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Limerick City) Order 2004 S.I. No. 616 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying urban Renewal Areas) (Newcastle West, County Limerick) Order 2004 S.I. No. 617 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Longford Town) Order 2004 S.I. No. 618 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Drogheda, County Louth) Order 2004 S.I. No. 619 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation jAct 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Dundalk, County Louth) Order 2004 S.I. No. 620 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Ballina, County Mayo) Order 2004 S.I. No. 621 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Navan, County Meath) Order 2004 S.I. No. 622 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Monaghan Town) Order 2004 S.I. No. 623 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Birr, County Offaly) Order 2004 S.i. nO. 624 OF 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Tullamore, County Offaly) Order 2004 S.I. No. 625 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Carrick-On-Suir, County tipperary) Order 2004 S.I. No. 626 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Roscrea, County Tipperary) Order 2004 S.I. No. 627 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Thurles, County Tipperary) Order 2004 S.I. No. 628 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Tipperary LTown) Order 2004 S.I. No. 629 of 2004Taxes Consolidati9n Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Sligo town) Order 2004 S.I. No. 630 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Waterford City) Order 2004 S.I. No. 631 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Dungarvan, County Waterford) Order 2004 S.I. No. 632 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Athlone, County Westmeath) Order 2004 S.I. No. 633 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) ( Mullingar, county JWestmeath) Order 2004 S.I. No. 634 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) ( New Ross, County Wexford) Order 2004 S.I. No. 635 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Arklow, County Wicklow) Order 2004 S.I. No. 636 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Qualifying Urban Renewal Areas) (Wicklow Town) Order 2004 S.I. No. 637 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Living Over The Shop) (Qualifying Streets) (Cork) Order 2004 S.I. No. 638 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Living Over The Shop) (Qualifying Streets) (Dublin) Order 2004 S.I. No. 639 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Living Over The Shop) (Qualifying Streets) (Galway) Order 2004 S.I. No 640 of 2004 taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Living Over The Shop) (Qualifying Streets) (Waterford) Order 2004 S.I. No. 641 of 2004 Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (Living Over The Shop) (Qualifying Streets) (Limerick) Order 2004 S.I. No. 642 of 2004 Finance Act 2004 (Section 26) (Commencement of Certain Provisions) Order 2004 NOTED 4.Discussion with representatives from the Dept of An Taoiseach on the Strategy Statement 2005-2007 for the Dept of An Taoiseach Mr. Dermot McCarthy, Secretary General, Dept of An Taoiseach made opening presentation. A question and answer session followed. Also in attendance were Mr. Martin Fraser, Mr Paul McGarry, Ms. Aileen Healy, Ms. Sinead Nic Coitir and Ms. Grainne Hayes. 5.Discussion with representatives from the Dept of Finance on the Strategy Statement 2005-2007 for the Dept of Finance Mr. Tom Considine, Dept of Finance made an opening presentation. A question and answer session followed. Also in attendance was Mr. Michael Errity, Assistant Secretary to in Public Expenditure Division, Ms. Carmel Keane, Head of Corporate Services Division and Mr. Robert Pye, Assistant Principal in Corporate Services Division. 6.Adjournment It was agreed that the Committee would meet as follows in September: 7 September: Chairman of the Decentralisation Group 21 September: Review of Tax Relief’s and Exemption Submissions. Should the Chairman of the Decentralisation Group be unavailable, the meeting of Review of Tax Relief’s and Exemption Submissions will be brought forward to 7 September There being no further business the Committee adjourned at 5.44 p.m. until the 7th September 05. ____________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 7 September 05 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday 7th September 05The Joint Committee met at 3.11 p.m. in Committee Room 3, a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senator Joe O’Toole. Also in attendance were Deputies Catherine Murphy, Dan Boyle and Eamon Ryan 2.Minutes of meeting of 27th July 05 Minutes of the meeting of 27 July 05 were agreed. 3.Correspondence •Letter to the Clerk from the Dept of Finance regarding progress report on the Decentralisation Implementation Report. NOTED •Letter from the Financial Regulator enclosing the annual report May 03 to December 04. NOTED •Letter to the Clerk from the Clerk to the Sub Committee on EU Scrutiny with no proposals referred to the Committee for scrutiny. NOTED •Letter to the Clerk from Ciaran Smyth, Deputy Director of the Committee’s regarding the annual report by the sub committee on EU Scrutiny. NOTED •Letter to the Chairman from Mr. Edward Kearns regarding the Revenue Commissioners. Agreed that consideration of this matter be held over to the next meeting. •Letter to the Chairman from Pat Furlong, Managing Director of Laing O’Rourke regarding tax incentives for property development enclosing a copy of their submission to the Dept of Finance. NOTED •Letter to the Clerk from Ms. Aine Stapleton regarding the date of the meeting between the Committee and Mr. Finbarr Flood, Chairman of the Decentralisation Implementation Group. Agreed to hold meeting on the 21 Sept 05 subject to Mr. Floods availability •Combat Poverty Agency: Conference on Mapping Poverty: National Regional and County Patterns. NOTED •‘A Woman’s Model for Social Welfare Reform’ Report from the National Women’s Council of Ireland. Agreed that, subject to no duplication with another Committee, that they be invited before the Committee at some future date. •Seventh Report by the Minister for Finance on Freedom of Information. NOTED •Letter to the Clerk regarding SI’s 146 to 157 of 2005. NOTED •Central Bank & Financial Services Authority of Ireland Quarterly Bulletin. NOTED •Acknowledgement from the Financial Regulator. NOTED Statutory Instruments •S.I. 284 of 2005: Finance Ac 2005 (Commencement of Certain Provisions of Chapter 2 of Part 2) Order 2005 S.I. 344 of 2005: European Communities (Customs Action against Goods Suspected of Infringing certain Intellectual Property Rights) Regulations 2005 S.I. 354 of 2005: Financial Transfers (Burma/Myanmar) (Prohibition) Order (No 2) 2005 S.I 355 of 2005: European Communities (Burma/Myanmar) (Sanctions) Regulations (No 2) 2005 S.I 356 of 2005: Financial Transfers (International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) (Probation) Order (No 2) 2005 S.I .357 of 2005: European Communities (International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) ) (Financial Sanctions) Regulations (No 2) 2005 S.I. 358 of 2005: Financial Transfers (Ivory Coast) (Probation) Order 2005 S.I. 359 of 2005: European Communities (Ivory Coast) (Financial Sanctions) Regulations 2005 S.I. 367 of 2005: European Communities (Mutual Assistance in the Field of Direct Taxation, Certain Excise Duties and Taxation of Insurance Premiums) Regulations 2005 S.I. 379 of 2005: Ministerial and Parliamentary Offices (Allowances and Salaries) Order 2005 S.I .381 of 2005: Comptroller and Auditor General (Amendment ) Act 1993 (Section 14) Order 2005 S.I. 385 of 2005: Investor Compensation Act 1998 (Section 18(4) (Prescription of Bodies and Individuals) (Amendment) Regulations 2005 S.I. 414 of 2005: Financial Transfers (Usama bin Laden, Al-Quaida and Taliban of Afghanistan) (Probation) (Revocation) Order 2005 S.I. 415 of 2005: European Communities (Usama bin Laden, Al-Quaida and Taliban of Afghanistan) (Sanctions) (Revocation) Regulations 2005 S.I. 416 of 2005: Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act 2005 (Section 42(2)) (Usama bin Laden, Al-Quaida and Taliban of Afghanistan) (Financial Sanctions) Regulations 2005 S.I. 417 of 2005: Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act 2005 (Section 42 (6)) (Usama bin Laden, Al-Quaida and Taliban of Afghanistan) (Financial Sanctions) Regulations 2005 S.I. 418 of 2005: Financial Transfers (Counter Terrorism) (Revocation) Order 2005 S.I. 419 of 2005: European Communities (Counter Terrorism Financial Sanctions) (Revocation) Regulations 2005 S.I. 420 of 2005: Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act 2005 (Section 42 (2)) (Counter Terrorism) (Financial Sanctions) Regulations 2005 S.I. 421 of 2005: Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act 2005 (Section 42 (6)) ( Counter Terrorism) (Financial Sanctions) Regulations 2005 S.I. 422 of 2005: Financial Transfers (Democratic Republic of Congo) (Probation) Order 2005 S.I. 423 of 2005: European Communities (Democratic Republic of Congo) (Financial Sanctions) Regulations 2005 S.I. 424 of 2005: Financial Transfers (Iraq) (Probation) Order (No 2) 2005 S.I. 425 of 2005: European Communities (Iraq) (Financial Sanctions) Regulations (No 2) 2005 S.I. 426 of 2005: Financial Transfers (Ivory Coast) (Probation ) Order (No 2) 2005 S.I. 427 of 2005: European Communities (Ivory Coast ) (Financial Sanctions) Regulations (No 2) 2005 S.I. 428 of 2005: Financial Transfers (Liberia) (Probation) Order (No 2) 2005 S.I. 429 of 2005: European Communities (Liberia) (Sanctions) Regulations (No 2) 2005 S.I. 430 of 2005: Financial Transfers (Zimbabwe) (Probation) Order (No 2) 2005 S.I. 431 of 2005: European Communities (Zimbabwe) (Sanctions) Regulations (No 2) 2005 S.I. 503 of 2005: National Treasury Management Agency (Delegation of Claims Management Functions) Order 2005 NOTED •Letter to the Clerk from Mr. Tom Considine regarding the official transcript of the Committee Meeting on the 27 July 05. NOTED, copy sent to the Editor of Debates for attention as appropriate •Letter to the Clerk from Mr. Tom Considine regarding the attendance of the Joint Committee Meeting on the 7 September 05. NOTED, relevant to today’s meeting 4.Proposed attendance at a High-Level OECD Parliamentary Seminar on ‘China: Current Economic Policy Challenges’ in Paris on the 6th October 05 The following motion was agreed The Joint Committee in the interest of informing itself in pursuance of its terms of reference, agrees to accept the invitation received from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to participate in a High-level OECD Parliamentary Seminar on “China: Current Economic Policy Challenges” which will take place at OECD headquarters in Paris on 6th October, 2005 from 10 am to 5 pm. The estimated cost of attendance is Euro 2,052 for two members and Euro 1,026 for an official.” 5.Review of Tax Reliefs and Exemption Submissions — meeting with officials from the Dept of Finance and the Office of the Revenue Commissioners Mr. Kevin Cardiff, Assistant Secretary General, Dept of Finance made opening presentation. A question and answer session followed. Also in attendance were: Dept of Finance: Mr. Liam Murphy, Principal, Mr. Vincent Palmer, Principal and Mr. David Owens, Assistant Principal. Office of Revenue Commissioners: Mr. Liam Irwin, Deputy Secretary, Ms. Finnuala Ryan, Assistant Principal and Mr. Sean O’Connor, Assistant Principal. 6.Adjournment There being no further business the Committee adjourned at 5.47 until the 21 September 05 at 10am. Should the Chairman of the Decentralisation Implementation Board be unavailable on the day, a further meeting on the Tax Reliefs and Exemption Submissions will take place on that day at which the Irish Taxation Institute and the Arts Council will be heard on their submissions. ____________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 21 September 05 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday 21st September 05The Joint Committee met at 10.23 a.m. in Committee Room 1, a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Paul McGrath, MJ Nolan, Caoimhghín O Caoláin, Ned O’Keeffe and Senator Joe O’Toole Also in attendance was Deputy Catherine Murphy 2.Minutes of meeting of 7th September 05 Minutes of the meeting of 7 September 05 were agreed. Regarding a letter to the Chairman at the meeting of 7th September 05, regarding the Revenue Commissioners, item no. 2005/0163, it was agreed to defer consideration until the next meeting when Deputy O Caoláin was present. 3.Correspondence •National Women’s Council of Ireland — Pre budget submission. NOTED •Invite and programme for the OECD High Level Parliamentary Seminar in Paris. NOTED •PIAB — Personal Injuries Assessment Board- Annual Report 2004. NOTED 4.Review of Tax Reliefs and Exemption Submissions — meeting with representatives from the Irish Taxation Institute Mr. Philip Brennan, President, ITI made opening presentation. A question and answer session followed. Also in attendance were: Irish Taxation Institute: Ms. Cora Murray, Director Mr. Adrian Sherlock, Director Mr. Mark Redmond, Chief Executive The Institute agreed to provide: (a)Further developed proposals on the certification (business case) of tax reliefs related to particular sectors; and (b)incentives for highly paid individuals to establish enterprises. The Joint Committee agreed to consider the examination of tax reliefs in the health and education areas. 5.Adjournment There being no further business the Committee adjourned at 12.37 until the 5 October 05 at 9am. when a further meeting on the Tax Reliefs and Exemption Submissions will take place on that day at which the Arts Council will be heard on their submissions. ____________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 5 October 05 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 5th October 2005The Joint Committee met at 9.39 a.m. in Committee Room 4, a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
The Chairman welcomed Deputy Catherine Murphy as a new member to the Committee in place of Deputy Paddy McHugh and thanked Deputy McHugh for his work on the Committee. 2.Minutes of meeting of 21st September 05 Minutes of the meeting of 21 September 05 were agreed. 3.Correspondence It was agreed that correspondence and related matters be deferred to the next meeting. 4.Review of Tax Reliefs and Exemption Submissions — meeting with representatives from the Arts Council Ms. Olive Braiden, Chairperson, Ms. Mary Cloake, Director and Mr. John McGahern, Member of the Council made opening statements. A question and answer session followed. 5.Adjournment There being no further business the Committee adjourned at 11.15 a.m. until the 12 October 05 at 3 p.m., when a further meeting on the Tax Reliefs and Exemption Submissions will take place on that day at which the Combat Poverty Ireland will be heard on their submissions. ____________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 12 October 05 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 12th October 2005The Joint Committee met at 3.15 p.m. in Committee Room 4, a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Also in attendance was Deputy Dan Boyle. 3.Minutes of meeting of 5 October 2005 The minutes of the meeting of 5 October 2005 were agreed. Regarding the correspondence to the Chairman from an individual in relation to the Revenue Commissioners (Item No 2005/0163), it was agreed that the Clerk would advise the Committee at its next meeting on the options available to the Committee to deal with the matter. 3.Correspondence The following correspondence was considered:- Correspondence deferred from meeting of 5 October 2005 - •A fax to the Clerk dated 20 September 2005 from The Arts Council regarding attendance at the Committee’s meeting on 21 September 2005. NOTED •An email to the Clerk dated 20 September 2005 from Mr George Treacy, Head of Consumer Protection Codes Department, IFSRA in response to a letter from the Chairman to the Financial Regulator regarding the position of people with endowment policies. The Committee agreed to seek the up-to-date position on its survey from IFSRA before inviting in the Regulator. •‘An Accessible Childcare Model’ - A Report from the National Women’s Council of Ireland. NOTED •Fax to the Clerk dated 26 September 2005 from The Arts Council regarding attendance at the Committee’s meeting on 5 October 2005. NOTED •Notification of a Seminar on the EU’s financial management: Fact, Fiction and Future to be held on 4 October 2005 in Brussels. NOTED •Press Release from the Chief Whip announcing the Legislative Programme for the next Dáil session. NOTED •Fax and letter to the Clerk dated 28 September 2005 from CORI regarding attendance at the Committee meeting on 5 October 2005. NOTED •A letter to the Chairman dated 22 September 2005 from Deputy Joan Burton requesting that the Committee have hearings on the economic and taxation implications of the tax breaks for investment in private hospitals, sports injuries treatment centres and nursing homes and the development of such facilities on publicly owned lands. It was agreed to invite the Minister for Health and Children and the Minister for Finance to a meeting to discuss these issues. •A letter to the Clerk dated 29 September 2005 from the Journal Office regarding membership changes in the Committee. NOTED •A letter to the Clerk dated 3 October 2005 from The Arts Council regarding attendance at the Committee meeting on 5 October 2005. NOTED •Launch of Combat Poverty Ireland Annual Report on 24 October 2005. NOTED •Email to the Clerk dated 4 October 2005 from the Construction Industry Federation regarding attendance at the Committee meeting on 12 October 2005. NOTED •EU SCRUTINY: A letter dated 21 September 2005 from the Clerk to the Sub-Committee on European Scrutiny referring proposals for further scrutiny or information - COM(2005)334 and COM(2005)547 referred for further scrutiny, COM(2005)314 and COM(2005)327 referred for information and consideration and COM(2005)343 has been referred for information — it was agreed to defer consideration of these proposals to a future meeting. •STATUTORY INSTRUMENTS SI No 566 of 2005: Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) (Amendment)(No 2) Regulations 2005 and SI No 570 of 2005: Finance Act 2005 (Section 21 (1)(e)(ii)) (Commencement) Order 2005. NOTED Correspondence for meeting of 12 October 2005 •A letter to the Chairman dated 30 September 2005 from the Minister for Finance regarding non-residency rules. NOTED •A letter to the Clerk dated 3 October 2005 from Ms Colette Fleming, Private Secretary to the Ceann Comhairle, enclosing correspondence received from Josep Borrell Fontelles, President, European Parliament. NOTED. •European Union - Regional Policy newsletter August 2005. NOTED •Letter to the Clerk dated10 October 2005 from Cáit Hayes, Interparliamentary Unit, enclosing a copy of correspondence from the Inter Parliamentary Union. NOTED — members are to advise if they interested in travelling •“Highlights” magazine from OECD Forum 2005. NOTED •AMENDED National Women’s Council of Ireland — pre budget submission. NOTED •EU SRUTINY: A letter dated 6 October 2005 from the Clerk to the Sub-Committee on European Scrutiny stating that no proposals were being referred to the Joint Committee. NOTED •STATUTORY INSTRUMENTS: SI No 612 of 2005: Central Bank Act 1971 (Approval of Scheme of AIB Capital Markets plc and Allied Irish Banks plc) Order 2005. NOTED 4.Review of Submissions on Tax Reliefs and Exemption for High Earners — meeting with representatives from Combat Poverty Agency Ms. Olive Braiden, Chairperson, Ms. Mary Cloake, Director and Mr. John McGahern, Member of the Council made opening statements. A question and answer session followed. 5.Adjournment There being no further business the Committee adjourned at 4.51 p.m. until 19 October 2005 at 9.30 a.m. __________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 14 December 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 19 October 20051.The meeting commenced at 9.45 a.m. in public session. 2.Attendance: The following members attended: Deputies: Sean Fleming (in the chair), Richard Bruton, Joan Burton, John Cregan, Paul McGrath, Catherine Murphy, MJ Nolan and Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin. Senators: Martin Mansergh and Mary White. Deputy Dan Boyle also attended. 3.Minutes of previous meeting It was agreed to defer consideration of the draft minutes of the previous meeting. 4.Correspondence The Joint Committee considered the following correspondence:- (a)A letter dated 5 October 2005 from the ‘Industry and Parliament Trust’ inviting participation in the “INTRODUCING WESTMINSTER WORKSHOP”. It was agreed to note the letter. (b)A letter dated 30 September 2005 from the Minister for State at the Department of Foreign Affairs with responsibility for European Affairs, Mr. Noel Treacy, TD, regarding developments in the European Union and, in particular, scrutiny of EU legislative proposals. In noting the letter, the Committee agreed to give priority to EU proposals forwarded by the Sub-Committee on European Scrutiny. (c)An e-mail dated 13 October 2005 from the First Director SFA registering a formal complaint concerning the administration of the 1994 to 1999 CSF Programme and attendant matters. The Committee agreed in the first instance to request the EU Commission to forward a copy of its reply to the SFA to the Joint Committee in order to facilitate further consideration of the matter. (d)Letter to the Clerk (10/10/2005) from the Change Management and Training Unit, Department of An Taoiseach, enclosing a copy of the Department’s Scheme under Section 11 of the Officials Languages Act. It was agreed to note the letter. (e)“Action on Poverty Today” - Combat Poverty Agency Autumn 2005 Newsletter. It was decided to note the newsletter. (f)Anonymous correspondence forwarded to the Committee enclosing a paper cutting from the Irish Independent in relation to the tax status of Dun Laoghaire Golf Club. It was decided to disregard this anonymous correspondence. 5.Presentation by CORI Justice Commission in relation to the Review of Tax Reliefs and Exemptions for High Earners A delegation from CORI Justice Commission - Fr Seán Healy SMA, Director and Sr Brigid Reynolds SM, Director- made a presentation to the Committee in relation to the Review of Tax Reliefs and High Earners. There then followed a question and answer session with Members. 6.Next Meeting The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, 26 October 2005, to receive representatives from ICTU, IBEC and Construction Industry Federation in relation to the Review of Tax Reliefs and Exemptions for High Earners. 7.Adjournment. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 11.39 am. -------------------------- Seán Fleming, T.D. Chairman October 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 26th October 2005The Joint Committee met at 3.11 p.m. in Committee Room 4, a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
Also in attendance was Senator Terry Leydon. Apologies were received from Deputy Paul McGrath and Senator John Paul Phelan. 2.Minutes of meeting of 19 October 2005 The minutes of the meeting of 19 October 2005 were agreed. 3.Correspondence The following correspondence was considered:- a)A letter to the Clerk dated 20 October 2005 from the Journal Office referring the Statute Law Revision (pre — 1922) Bill 2004 (Seanad) to the Select Committee. It was agreed that the Select Committee would consider this Bill at a date to be agreed in November; b)A fax to the Chairman dated 25 October 2005 from an individual taxpayer regarding his case with the Revenue Commissioners. The Committee agreed that no further action would be taken on this matter pending consideration of the matter in the context of the deferred minutes of the meeting of 12 October 2005; it was further agreed that all correspondence issued from the Committee on this matter would be circulated to members. c)IN FOCUS newsletter and IMF newsletter. These were noted. On the general issue of correspondence, it was agreed that in future all correspondence which issued from the Committee on foot of issues raised and decisions made by the Committee would be circulated to members. 4.Review of Submissions on Tax Reliefs and Exemption for High Earners — meeting with representatives from CIF, IBEC and ICTU CIF: Mr. George Hennessey, Director of Economic and Public Affairs and Mr. Martin Whelan, Executive Eastern Region made opening statements. A question and answer session followed. The meeting was suspended at 4.27 pm and resumed at 4.28 pm. IBEC: Mr. Danny McCoy, Director of Economic Policy made an opening statement. A question and answer session followed. Also in attendance were Mr. David Croughan, Chief Economist and Mr. Fergal O’Brien, Senior Economist. The meeting was suspended at 5.15 pm and resumed at 5.17 pm. ICTU: Mr. Paul Sweeney, Economic Advisor made an opening statement. A question and answer session followed. The meeting was suspended at 5.43pm for a vote in the Dáil. The meeting resumed at 6.02 pm. 5.Adjournment There being no further business the Committee adjourned at 6.22 p.m. until Wednesday 9th November at 3.00 p.m. __________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 14 December 2005 Joint Committee on Finance and the Public ServiceProceedings of the Joint CommitteeWednesday, 14th December 2005The Joint Committee met at 9.42 a.m. in Committee Room 4, a quorum being present. 1.Attendance The following members attended:
2.Minutes of meeting of 12 and 26 October 2005 The minutes of the meeting of 12 and 26 October 2005 were agreed. 3.Correspondence Re Item No 2005/0232, it was agreed to write to the Minister for Finance to ask that he reconsider his position. At that point the Committee will conclude on the matter. The remaining correspondence was deferred until the next meeting. The meeting was suspended at 9.45 am until 9.48 am. 4.Progress in Public Service Decentralisation — discussion with Mr. Finbarr Flood, Chairman, Decentralisation Implementation Group Mr. Finbarr Flood made an opening statement. A question and answer session followed. Also in attendance were: Mr. Michael Errity, Assistant Secretary, Department of Finance Ms. Áine Stapleton, Secretary, Decentralisation Implementation Group Ms. Irene Kirwan, Central Decentralisation Unit, Department of Finance 5.Adjournment There being no further business the Committee adjourned at 11.52 a.m. until Wednesday 11th January. __________________ Sean Fleming T.D., Chairman 11 January 2006 |
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