Paul McGrath (Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 446: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of staff in each general service and department grade in his Department who have been exempt for a period in excess of six months from attending meetings, dealing with correspondence, dealing with telephone queries, home or foreign travel, using computers or other duties by virtue of a medical certificate; if such long-term exemptions from normal duties are fair to other staff who must carry out extra work; if such exempted staff provide the taxpayer with good value for money; if such exemptions or certificates have been reviewed by the chief medical officer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29428/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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At the request of my Department, two members of staff have been assessed by the Civil Service occupational health department which recommended that, for medical reasons, the individuals should be exempt from certain limited duties pertaining to their posts. In one case alternative duties have been assigned while arrangements were put in place to accommodate the special needs of the other staff member. In keeping with the Department's pastoral duty of care and statutory responsibilities as an employer, the arrangements were put in place to take account of the particular needs of the individuals concerned. I am also advised that these arrangements have not unduly affected business delivery by the Department.