The Government is making good progress in getting rid of quangos, a senior Minister said today.

Public Expenditure Minister Brendan Howlin added that the plan to merge or scrap some agencies is not finished yet.

He says over 100 agencies have already been wound down - with significant savings to the taxpayer.

“There are now more than 169 fewer State bodies than when we took office in 2011 – 169 – with a further 12 yet to be abolished, but on the way,” he said.

“This is a remarkable achievement in three years.

“The same analysis shows that Exchequer savings of over 18m have been achieved to date, with a further €9m profiled to come in when the final phase is achieved.”