The Ombudsman must, for each financial year other than the first, prepare an estimate of the use of resources (within the meaning of the Government Resources and Accounts Act (Northern Ireland) 2001) by the office of the Ombudsman.

That estimate must be submitted to the committee established under section 66 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.

In considering that estimate, that committee must have regard to the advice of the Department of Finance and Personnel.

That estimate must, subject to any modifications agreed between that committee and the Ombudsman, be laid before the Assembly by that committee.