Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The Exchequer figures published yesterday call to mind the words of the Minister for Finance on Monday, when he said the science of economic forecasting at present is imprecise, a bit like forecasting the weather, where there is such a variety of forecasts that the reality is we share a common analysis. If that is the case, does the Taoiseach believe the Estimates published in respect of his Department will stand up to analysis?

Has the Taoiseach established the criteria that will apply for the replacement of staff who might retire or move on? Is there any indication of the numbers within the Department who might retire this year? Will they be replaced? Is there any assurance that public servants who take early retirement will not have their lump sums taxed? If this matter is not conclusively addressed, it will quickly cause a brain drain and a loss of experience from all Departments. It must be dealt with in a reassuring manner by the Taoiseach.

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