Written question asked by Martin Smyth (Ulster Unionist Party) on Thursday, 3 February 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 8 February 2005. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 February 2005 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what account the Department of Finance and Personnel took of safeguarding and child protection in setting its budget and priorities; and what priority will be given to accreditation arrangements contained in the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults (Northern Ireland) Order 2003 by Government departments in Northern Ireland in the development of departmental business plans.

Answer: Rev. Martin Smyth: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what account the Department of Finance and Personnel took of safeguarding and child protection in setting its budget and priorities; and what priority will be given to accreditation arrangements contained in the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults (Northern Ireland) Order 2003 by Government departments in Northern Ireland in the development of departmental business plans. [214823] Angela Smith: Safeguarding and child protection continue to be a priority for central government. The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety will consider accreditation arrangements contained in the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults (Northern Ireland) Order 2003 (POCVA) along with other funding requirements in the light of available resources and competing priorities.

Secondary information