Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)

Professor Boyle states:

I refer to your letter dated 4th March 2009 concerning issues related to the future delivery of the REPS service provided by Teagasc.

REPS contract staff in Teagasc are given contracts of indefinite service after four continuous years' service in REPS arising from a recommendation of the Labour Court. This has required an agreement between Teagasc and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Food and the Department of Finance that when a contract REPS staff member reaches four years' contract REPS service that Teagasc's approved contract Staff Establishment decreases by one and the approved permanent Staff Establishment increases by one. Teagasc will require an indication from [the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food] that this approach can continue to be taken in the context of the required reductions in staff numbers. Otherwise, Teagasc could not continue to implement the Labour Court's recommendation. Clearly, any decision will also be significantly influenced by the outcome of the Review of Teagasc's future involvement in REPS that is imminently required by the Departments.

REPS planners are highly valued by Teagasc as the staff concerned make a very important financial contribution to the organisation [of more than €3 million] while providing an excellent service to farmer clients. It would be Teagasc's intention to remain significantly involved in REPS and we will be making this clear in the imminent Review that will take place with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Food and the Department of Finance.

This letter is dated 2 April. For the Minister of State to come into the House this evening-----

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