Health Minister Simon Harris has been asked to consider the introduction of an “amnesty” for charities and organisations that have irregularities regarding their accounts.

The request was made in a letter sent to the minister by Cork South West TD Jim Daly, which has been seen by Independent.ie.

“I'm sure you don't need me to point out to you the irreparable damage that these revelations are causing to very many effective and well run organisations,” Mr Daly wrote.

“I feel very strongly that this issue needs to be addressed in a way that will be conclusive, and will not result in further similar revelations surfacing in the future.

“Such an amnesty should I believe offer all organisations the opportunity to present accounts (revised if necessary) outlining the actual position, past and present, for an appropriate number of years.”

The news comes as Education Minister Richard Bruton said he believes the office of the Charity Regulator will be beefed up to deal with wrongdoing.

“The charity regulator has only moved, built up his power over time,. He will now from September have the full powers for investigations.

Online Editors