Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 1107: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of staff in his Department currently on leave undertaking full-time study paid for by his Department; the number undertaking part-time or evening study paid for by his Department; the subject areas these persons are studying; the qualifications which are expected to be achieved; his plans to make best use of those qualifications upon completion of the study period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1116/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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There are currently six staff on paid full-time study leave, while 166 staff are undertaking part-time or evening study paid for by the Department. The figure of 166 includes 70 staff from the Department and its agencies who are completing a one-year Diploma in Justice Studies, a specially designed course developed by the Institute of Public Administration.

Department of Finance Circular 21/78 sets out conditions under which refunds of fees may be paid. The scheme covers such subjects as accountancy, business administration, economics, general management, law, personnel management and public administration to name but a few. To qualify for a refund of fees the course undertaken must be deemed to be relevant to the work of the officer concerned and the Department. Most of the courses undertaken by staff lead to a third level qualification.

Where possible, staff with particular skills or qualifications are assigned to positions which maximise the use of their qualifications for the benefit of the Department and the individual concerned.