Concerns the disclosure could cover a four-year period despite only coming to light

THE investigation into “irregularities” in Cork city’s bin tags and parking discs distribution system may involve a sum in excess of €800,000, it has emerged.

There were also concerns that the “irregularities” discovered following an internal audit ordered by Cork City Council may cover a period of about four years even though the issue was only discovered recently.

The issue came to light towards the end of the city council’s bi-monthly meeting on Monday night. Labour councillor Denis O’Flynn questioned city officials about a paragraph in a statutory audit report on the council’s 2007 finances.

In her report to the lord mayor and council members, dated December 3, 2008, local government auditor, Grace Coakley, said while she was examining the council’s books, she had been made aware by city management that an internal investigation was under way in relation to the bin tags and parking discs distribution system.

Mr O’Flynn asked city management for clarification on the matter. In response to the question, the city’s head of finance, Tim Healy, confirmed that an internal audit targeting that particular council operation had been carried out. He said the audit had uncovered “irregularities” which “raised concerns” about how the system was operating and he said the matter has since been referred to gardaí.

It is understood the council’s complaint was forwarded sometime last month. The gardaí are still considering the complaint.

Mr Healy declined to comment further pending the outcome of the Garda deliberations.

A special council committee has also been set up to investigate the matter and it is expected to report back to city councillors in a matter of weeks.

However, it is not clear what level of detail the committee will be able to produce. It is also expected the matter will be referred to when the council’s 2008 finances are audited this year.

Cork City Council uses bin tags in its waste collection service. Its customers must attach a €3 or a €6 tag to their wheelie bin, depending on its size, to ensure the bin is collected.

The tags can be bought at City Hall and from dozens of local shops, petrol stations and credit unions across the city. The council also operates a €2 parking ticket system for on-street parking. These are available from the same outlets.