Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

They are taking place during the course of this year. The implementation body is set up in the context of the agreement that was reached, therefore, it has its role to play in implementing this agreement. It is why it is called the implementing body and it will ensure that the implementation of the agreement is proceeded with. There are arrangements under the agreement as to how the implementation body will assist in every way it can, using its expertise to obtain agreement at the local level. There are issues to be resolved at the local level that would be different depending on the circumstances in terms of what redeployment is necessary and how the rosters are to be arranged. As the Deputy is aware, that is a very detailed arrangement that would be dealt with at the local level. Where an issue arises, where there is a blockage or a non-agreement on some aspect of how all that is to work, then the implementation body would deal with it and make a finding which would then inform how the matter would be resolved. In terms of the mechanics and the day-to-day implementation of the public service agreement, the implementation body has the lead role.

The question of how to develop a wider integrated public service, which is a wider agenda than simply the matter of the agreement, is being driven forward by the public service board. Again, it is not in the operational area. The operational area will remain at the level of the normal IR processes. The issue of how to develop training, management development, how to get systems in place to ensure that we change the culture and get people involved in that area, is done through the board. The political oversight of that will be through the Cabinet committee system.

Those are the arrangements and I am satisfied that there is a big body of work to be done. I have every confidence that everyone will proceed with it with a view to ensuring we get the outcomes that are agreed.

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