Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 7 to 9, inclusive, together.

The recommendations of the Nally report in respect of the reorganisation of the Chief State Solicitor's office have largely been implemented. Agreement with the unions involved was achieved during 2001. The criminal prosecutions functions undertaken by the Chief State Solicitor's office were transferred to the Office of Director of Public Prosecutions at the end of 2001. A common promotion pool within the two offices for professional and technical promotion posts formed part of the agreement and that is now in operation.

A negotiating process with local State solicitors seeking to agree on the transfer of the service to the DPP is under way. Enabling legislation and appropriate legislative provisions are contained in the Civil Service Regulation (Amendment) Bill 2004, which passed Second Stage in the Dáil on 13 October 2004 and is awaiting Committee Stage.

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