Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 78: 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 Government's decentralisation programme; the way in which this compares with the Government 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. [7190/05]

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. New applications for decentralisation continue to be received. Since the period for priority applications finished in September 2004, over 500 new applications have been received.

During the period for priority applications up to 7 September 2004, a total of 8,958 staff, made up of 8,152 civil servants and 806 public servants, applied for transfer to new locations. Of this number, 4,813 staff, made up of 4,236 civil servants and 577 public servants, are based in Dublin.

There are particular issues that arise in dealing with the State agencies. 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 decentralisation implementation group.

The results are encouraging and provide a very good base from which to move forward.