DUP deputy leader Peter Robinson has intervened in a bid to halt alleged fundraising activities for the GAA within a government department, it can be revealed.
Bosses at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) have launched a probe into the allegations brought to their attention by the East Belfast MP.
Last night it was unclear how Mr Robinson had been alerted to the alleged breach of rules within the department.
While fundraising for sports organisations is forbidden under civil service guidelines, sources told the Irish News that such a practice is not uncommon with tickets and posters sold for various groups in the past without objection.
One civil servant expressed disbelief at Mr Robinson's intervention.
"It's just petty. Over the years tickets and other items have been sold for various bodies and charities including club draws for Linfield Football Club etc, and nothing is said," the source said.
Last night the Department of Trade and Investment confirmed a probe into the fundraising claims was near completion.
"Mr Robinson has written to Minister Ian Pearson to ask him to look into alleged fundraising activities for the GAA within the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment," a spokesperson said.
"Our enquiries are not yet complete, but the minister hopes to reply to Mr Robinson shortly.
"The department does not authorise any fundraising activity for bodies outside the limited number of charities permitted by the NICS (Northern Ireland Civil Service) as a whole.
"These are organisations which either directly support civil servants or which have close historical links to the NICS."
Last night a spokesman for the Ulster GAA Council would only say: "If he (Mr Robinson) thinks that he knows of a route whereby we can secure fair and equitable funding which we are being denied, then we would welcome increased funding."
