Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 239: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if the special advisors attached to his Department are part of the line management system of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9310/05]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 240: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the roles and functions carried out by special advisors attached to his Department; if circulars or instructions have been issued within his Department concerning special advisors; if so, if he will provide a copy of any such circular; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9346/05]

John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 239 and 240 together.

In line with the provisions of the Public Service Management Act 1997, the role and functions of my special advisor are to provide me with advice, to monitor, facilitate and secure the achievement of Government objectives that relate to my Department and to perform other functions as directed by me. In the performance of his functions, the special advisor is accountable to me.

No specific circulars or instructions have been issued within my Department in regard to the special adviser. However, staff in my Department are fully aware of the role of the special adviser and are familiar with the provisions of the Public Service Management Act in this regard. The special adviser is not a part of the line management system in my Department.