Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I have been as helpful as possible to Deputies, beyond the remit of my own Department. In previous replies I outlined how the modulation is expected to work in the health sector for example. I have indicated the areas where a degree of flexibility is being applied.

A fixed term contract does not provide for an automatic entitlement to renewal. As with anyone on a fixed term contract, management will inform contract holders whether they will be kept on or not. That will be a matter for management. If the body concerned is under the aegis of the Department of Health and Children the matter will be worked out with the Department itself.

The implementation of the moratorium is outlined by the Department of Finance in those areas generally. In respect of specific issues which arise, it is a matter for the Department concerned to determine whether there will be any prospect of renewal. The moratorium refers to all contracts, including fixed term contracts. Therefore, the question of exceptional circumstances will arise and provision must be made for redeployment so that essential priority areas are catered for within existing staff complements.

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