76 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Health and Children when investigations will be completed into inappropriate use of Health Service Executive funds for the SKILLS and other related programmes; the sanctions that will be taken against persons found to have misused such funds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1546/11]

The issues concerning use of funds for SKILLS and other programmes are currently being examined by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). The PAC last considered this matter at a public hearing on 6 December 2010 and I understand the Committee intends revisiting the matter early in the New Year. It would be inappropriate for me to make any comment until the facts have been established and the PAC has completed its examination.