Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The requirement for specialist policy input and advice is a matter for each individual Minister to consider having regard to the area of responsibility and the support in place in the relevant Departments. I have put in place a range of appropriate advisory supports to support me in my role as Taoiseach and Head of Government. At present there are six special advisers working in my private office.

These staffing levels are in line with the instructions of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform on ministerial appointments for the 33rd Dáil.

The make-up of my team consists of a chief of staff at deputy secretary level, a deputy chief of staff at assistant secretary level, a part-time economic adviser at assistant secretary level and three special advisers at principal officer level. It should be noted that all of these appointments are subject to Government approval over the coming weeks, following which relevant contracts, including salary scales, statements of qualifications and statements of relationship, will be laid before the Oireachtas.

The special advisers working in my office provide briefings and advice on a wide range of policy matters as well as performing other functions as I may direct from time to time. They liaise with other special advisers in Departments so I remain informed of developments across Government. In addition, they monitor, facilitate and help ensure delivery of the Government's ambitious work programme and commitments set out in the programme for Government.

As outlined in the programme for Government, a number of reforms have been implemented to ensure openness and constructive co-operation within Government. These include the establishment of an office of the Tánaiste and an office of the leader of the Green Party within the Department of the Taoiseach located in Government Buildings. The special advisers assigned to me will also work closely with their counterparts to ensure cohesion and good communication across the Government partners.

Where expenses are incurred by staff in the performance of duties relating to their brief the Department pays mileage and travel and subsistence at normal Civil Service rates.

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