Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 144: 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; if agreement has now been reached with all public service unions regarding promotional opportunities for those who choose to move and those who opt to remain where they are; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26631/05]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The latest figures from the central applications facility show there is very substantial interest in the programme. During the period for priority applications up to 7 September 2004, approximately 9,000 applications were made. Over 8,000 of these were from civil servants with the balance made up of applications from public servants. Of these 4,813 were from civil and public servants, 4,236 civil servants and 577 public servants, currently located in Dublin. New applications for decentralisation continue to be received. Since the period for priority applications finished in September 2004, 1,300 new applications have been received.

Discussions are continuing between the management and the Civil Service unions on the implementation of the programme. It would not be appropriate for me to comment in detail on these discussions.

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 145: To ask the Minister for Finance if any estimate has been undertaken of the number of civil or public servants, who do not wish to relocate, who will be surplus to requirements as a result of their jobs being transferred to other locations under the Government's decentralisation programme; the jobs which will be provided for these persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26636/05]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

From the outset both the Government and I have made it clear that participation in the decentralisation programme is voluntary. Because of the nature of the programme it is not possible at this stage to estimate the number of public servants who do not wish to relocate as individual circumstances are open to change and therefore figures can fluctuate. The picture will become clearer over the coming period as staff is assigned to decentralising organisations. Those public and civil servants who do not wish to relocate outside Dublin will be offered alternative posts in Dublin. Regular consultations are of course taking place with unions representing civil and public servants. These consultations are seeking to address the full range of issues concerning civil and public servants wishing to relocate and those who want to remain in Dublin.