Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I am aware of the figures the Minister shared previously regarding the extra number recruited. However, the real comparison that must be made at this point is between the level of social work numbers, WTEs, as against the number in previous years. Is there a 25% increase in the actual numbers altogether, apart from the recruitment, given the departures and retirements up to 29 February? What is the real position now in the last week of March? These are valid and reasonable questions. Gordon Jeyes might have the authority to replace workers, but only within the confines of the budget provided. It is not the case that he can simply add numbers. He must thereby subtract numbers in some other way.

See this speech in context