I propose to take Questions Nos. 407 to 410, inclusive, together.
The deputy will be aware that the handling and processing of protected disclosures is governed by the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 (as amended) which places strict statutory obligations on public bodies in relation to confidentiality of such information.
Consistent with established policy and practice, the Department does not comment on individual cases including in circumstances where doing so could potentially prejudice processes or impact on the rights of parties concerned. The Department has a statutory obligation to protect the confidentiality of those making protected disclosures and to safeguard the integrity of any processes arising from such disclosures.
Accordingly, it would be inappropriate for me to provide further detail in relation to the matters raised. However, I can confirm that where a protected disclosure is received by the Department, it is assessed in accordance with our established policies and procedures.