Mr Francie Molloy, MLA
Chairman
Committee for Finance and Personnel
Parliament Buildings
STORMONT October 2001

Dear

The Committee recently considered the above consultation paper from the Department of Finance and Personnel and decided not to make a substantive response. Members also considered your correspondence of 3 October 2001 regarding the consultation paper, and agreed that I should respond briefly to the Committee for Finance and Personnel.

Members are concerned that implementation of the issues arising from the consultation process will ensure adequate and effective audit arrangements for all bodies and organisations in receipt of public money from the Department for Employment and Learning. This would include both Non-Departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs) and the universities as autonomous bodies. However, given the recent problems in England regarding the accountability of Further Education Colleges and their unique position as incorporated bodies, the Committee would highlight this area in particular as one which may be in need of special attention.

Yours sincerely

Dr Esmond Birnie, MLA
Chairman