Social Development Committee Launches Inquiry

The Assembly Committee for Social Development has just launched an inquiry into allegations arising from a BBC NI Spotlight programme which aired on 3 July 2013.

The programme cited a number of allegations, including suggestions that the Minister for Social Development had misled the Committee for Social Development and breached the Ministerial Code.

At its meeting on 4 July 2013 Members agreed to hold an inquiry into the issues raised in the programme, subject to legal and procedural advice.

The Committee Inquiry will examine whether or not there was any impropriety or irregularity relating to NIHE managed contracts and will consider any resulting actions.

The Committee agreed terms of reference for the inquiry on 3 October 2013 and the approach to progress the inquiry on 10 October 2013.

The Committee has made requests for written evidence and oral evidence sessions are expected to begin in mid-November. The Committee aims to conclude the inquiry by end April 2014.

ENDS