Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

More than 9,000 civil servants have applied to move. Mr. Phil Flynn wanted to assure himself that Departments would be able to operate efficiently and have sufficient people from all grades. That is why he has come forward with the 28 agencies and Departments. He has recommended to the Government — it has accepted the report — that those 28 agencies and Departments move. Some 4,500 civil servants will move in the three different moves which will be made. That is half of the full commitment. Within a year — although it will not be a year until tomorrow when the budget is announced — tremendous progress has been made by the Government, the Department of Finance and the OPW. I am very proud of that achievement.