asked Her Majesty's Government:

What was the total cost of the investigation into Waterways Ireland; and what amount and what percentage contribution were made by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure in Northern Ireland.[HL6604]

The investigation at Waterways Ireland was jointly carried out by independent investigators appointed and paid for separately by each sponsor department. The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure as NI sponsor department contributed £9,001.90 to the cost of the investigation. The costs incurred by the sponsor department in the Republic of Ireland are a matter for that department, and therefore the issue of percentage contributions does not arise.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What type and amount of legal costs have been incurred to date as a result of tribunal claims, legal action and complaints against Waterways Ireland since the body was established.[HL6605]

To date Waterways Ireland has incurred legal costs of £5,910.25 associated with industrial tribunals. In addition, the body has incurred costs of £4,089.01 in obtaining legal advice in relation to allegations of bullying and harassment made against the chief executive.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many staff are currently employed in Waterways Ireland, both permanent full time and temporary part time in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.[HL6606]

Staff numbers in Waterways Ireland as at 28 June 2006 are as follows.