Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

I read the Minister's reply earlier in the Irish Independent and it demeans the House that he made this information available to that newspaper before announcing it in the House. Does this imply that if I had not tabled the question today, he would not have made this decision? He announced 50 promotions at the RACO conference in Cavan three months ago. The members involved were listed and are awaiting promotion. Why did it take three months to make this announcement? The Minister announced only 40 promotions. What is the timeframe for the remaining ten promotions? He indicated that will depend on urgency and priority. How long will this take? Acting up is not the same as being promoted, as it is only a temporary measure. Will the Minister confirm when the remaining ten promotions will be made? Why did it take three months for these appointments to be announced since the individuals had been identified, approved and were ready? Why did we have to read this announcement in today's newspaper prior to the Minister replying to this question in the House? Surely he could have waited until he replied in the House to tell the newspaper.

See this speech in context