Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Those arrangements were agreed under the provisions of the Labour Services Act 1987 which cover the director general's remuneration and superannuation. Under this Act, the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment determines the terms and conditions of employment, including superannuation, for the CEO of FÁS, with the consent of the Minister for Finance. Securing a speedy departure in a non-litigious manner was considered to be in the best interests of FÁS, its clients and the taxpayer. That was the basis upon which his departure was negotiated and effected.

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