Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)

I am glad to hear the matter is under review. These lay-offs do not make any sense particularly in this highly sensitive area in which confidentiality is very important. It is vital that those who fill those roles have experience. Those on temporary contracts have built up that experience and expertise and are confident, capable, efficient personnel. I hope the ten clerical officers due to be let go before Christmas will have their contracts renewed.

Second, will the Minister clarify the position in the case of another 11 people whose contracts are due to expire in March? From my perspective and the perspective of everybody operating the vetting unit, it is highly unacceptable that people who are in a job should be displaced by people on a new jobs scheme. I appreciate the fact that the Minister is reviewing this. I hope there will be a favourable outcome to the review and that the people who are employed will continued to be employed on a contractual basis into the new year.

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