Joint Statement following a meeting between Minister of State Liz O'Donnell and GOAL

a meeting between Minister of State Liz O'Donnell and GOAL

A meeting took place at GOAL's request between Minister of State O'Donnell and a delegation from GOAL to discuss issues of funding and public accountability.

GOAL agreed to co-operate with the Department's audit and a meeting will take place between the two teams of auditors in the coming days to progress the matter.

The Minister reiterated that the Department had made no accusation against GOAL of fraud or wrongdoing.

The Minister explained in detail the Department's obligations in relation to accountability for and management of public funds.

GOAL recognises the Department's obligations. It unreservedly withdraws all suggestion that the Department or any of its officers has behaved other than professionally. GOAL apologises for any injury which may have been caused to individuals by its statements. GOAL accepts that suggestions of a hostile campaign or "political and personal agendas" have been mistaken.

The Department intends that, with GOAL's co-operation, the audit should take place as soon as possible and be completed at an early date.

It is the Department's wish that as soon as the audit is completed and any necessary measures put in place, it can resume funding for GOAL projects.

The two sides look forward to restoring an amicable and cooperative relationship.

GOAL and the Department have agreed that there will be no further comment on these issues.Top