Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 to 7, inclusive, together.

There are no proposals to decentralise any part of my Department or any of the bodies under its aegis. As of 7 September last, 44 members of staff in my Department had applied through the central applications facility to relocate under the decentralisation programme. The breakdown by grade is assistant principal — six; administrative officer — eight; higher executive officer — four; executive officer — 12; staff officer — two; clerical officer — 11; and general operative — one. The transfer of staff will take place on a planned basis and it is not anticipated that it will in any way impact negatively on the work of the Department.

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