Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

First, in regard to the capital carry-over restriction, any change in that provision would certainly require a change in legislation and may require a constitutional change. From discussion with my officials on this issue in recent months, it is not a straightforward matter. It is something I will examine further. It has implications, of course, for overall expenditure control and management because, from a public expenditure point of view, the more multi-annual dimensions we have to our public expenditure framework, the more the complexity is increased. What the Deputy is proposing can be achieved but my understanding is there will be a constitutional issue in respect of removing the 10% requirement.

Regarding the particular scheme being run by Enterprise Ireland, I will have a look at it. The Civil Service renewal strategy does not encompass all the initiatives that are under way within individual Departments. We are placing a focus on talent and skills development on a continuous basis across the Civil Service.

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