Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 178: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if an exemption will be made in the public service recruitment moratorium in relation to the recruitment of trained school crossing guards to the reserve panel in view of the fact that they incur no extra cost to the taxpayer due to their not being paid when not on duty. [21683/09]

Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 179: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he will make a decision in regard to the sanctioning of positions (details supplied) by Waterford County Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21844/09]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 178 and 179 together.

Under the terms of the Government's decision on implementation of savings in public service numbers no public service post, however arising, may be filled by recruitment, promotion, or payment of an allowance for the performance of duties at a higher grade. This decision is effective from 31 March 2009 and stands until the end of 2010. My Department has, accordingly, written to all local authorities requesting their compliance. However, in recognition of the priority attaching to the maintenance of key front line services, my Department is consulting with the Department of Finance in regard to the management of relevant staffing needs.