Local TD appointed Chair of the Public Accounts Committee

Sinn Féin Laois-Offaly Brian Stanley has been appointed Chair of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).

Speaking after his appointment Deputy Stanley said: “The PAC performs a very important role in examining how public money is spent. I will work to ensure the highest possible standards in transparency, accountability and oversight in this regard.

“As a left republican party Sinn Féin wants to see strong investment in public services such as, universal healthcare, a top-class education system, childcare and housing. But we also believe it is essential that taxpayer’s money is spent well and that they get value for that investment.

"Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case and in recent years we have seen a number of high-profile cases where public money has been wasted. Examples include the massive overspend on the National Children’s Hospital, the National Broadband Plan and HSE agency staff costs. Many of these issues will remain high on the agenda for PAC in the 33rd Dáil.

Stanley added that the question of whether there is value for taxpayer’s money in having 20 Junior Ministers, 3 Super Junior Ministers, and 17 special advisors between the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and Green Party Leader.

"I want PAC to be an active watch on the public purse, to hold the Government to account and to ensure that we see a benefit to society for every single euro of taxpayer’s money spent.

"I will do my best during my time as Chair of PAC to ensure that this is the case.”