Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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It has been clear from the announcement of the programme that future promotion policies must take account of the reality of the decentralisation programme. In its report of 31 March 2004 the Flynn group said there was a clear case in terms of implementing the decentralisation programme for making promotions conditional on the appointees moving to the decentralised locations. It also said that this should not be seen as undermining the voluntary nature of the programme.

In ongoing discussions with the Civil Service unions the management side has explained that to support implementation of the programme the promotion vacancies arising should be filled, for the present, by those willing to relocate. The union side has since indicated that it is not prepared to accept the management proposals and I understand that discussions are continuing. I look forward to these discussions producing an agreement which supports the efficient implementation of the decentralisation programme.

The issue of changes which will be required to the current recruitment system to support implementation of the programme will also form part of the discussions with the Civil Service unions.