Pádraic McCormack (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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Question 157: To ask the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the serious problems being created in the decentralisation programme by the lack of clarity around the status of employees who do not wish to relocate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33134/05]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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From the outset, the Government has made it clear that participation in the decentralisation programme is voluntary.

As people who have applied to decentralise continue to be transferred into decentralising organisations, the posts they vacate become available to those wishing to remain in Dublin. A number of people have already availed of such opportunities.

It is hoped to extend these arrangements over the coming months and discussions in this regard are ongoing with the unions who represent civil and public servants.