Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 126: To ask the Minister for Finance the latest information available from the central applications facility in respect of applications from civil servants and other public servants currently located in Dublin who wish to transfer to new locations outside of Dublin under the decentralisation programme; the way in which this compares with the target of 10,300; his views on the potential loss of skills and expertise for specialist State agencies should they be decentralised with so few persons willing to transfer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29862/04]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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The latest figures from the central applications facility show there is very substantial interest in the programme. The figures for the Civil Service are much better than those for the State agencies. Unlike the State agencies, the Civil Service has considerable previous experience of decentralisation and has a long tradition of interdepartmental transfers. I see no reason in principle State agencies should always have to remain in Dublin. Clearly, there are particular issues that arise in dealing with the State agencies. This was always going to be the case. The correct approach is to tease out the issues and develop good long-term solutions in consultation with all of the parties involved. This is the approach being adopted by the Flynn group.