Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy's questions relate to the implementation of the Quigley report. I assure him that it is being implemented. The report's recommendations were adopted by the Government and the Secretaries General of the various Departments were informed. I explained the procedure in my initial reply. That is that; that is the way it is. It is a matter of ministerial choice. I have observed people in successive Governments working with people within Departments and with people outside Departments. It is a matter of personal choice. Obviously it must be in line with approval of the Department of Finance regarding salary levels etc. That is a transparent process. I do not understand the reference to individuals who are engaged in business now. They are subject to the same procurement arrangements as everyone else. If they get the tender, they get it and if they do not get it, they do not get it. I do not see the purpose of that intervention. Anyway I do not question the professionalism of any of those people who may be employed from time to time by Departments to do specific jobs. They have been employed by various Ministers of all parties from time to time where circumstances require them. As the Deputy has said there are also skill sets within the public service which I, personally, have always utilised.

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