Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position regarding the number of quangos, State agencies, forums and task forces that have been abolished in 2012; the position in relation to staff members of the agencies that have been abolished; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52257/12]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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I refer the Deputy to my answer to Question No. 16 answered on Wednesday 21 November, 2012 regarding progress on the agency rationalisation measures contained in the Public Service Reform Plan.

With regard to the position of the staff members of the agencies involved, one of the guiding principles which inform the Government's approach to agency rationalisation is respect for staff interests, and specifically that the Government will abide by the commitments given in the Croke Park Agreement in considering and implementing specific agency rationalisation proposals, subject to the necessary flexibilities, in particular on redeployment, being delivered.

From the start of this reform process, I have made clear that these proposals to rationalise specific agencies are in no way a reflection on the dedication, commitment and professionalism of the staff and agencies involved. It is rather that the Government’s commitment to providing a leaner and more focused public service requires us all to look at new ways of delivering services.

Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position regarding the number of new State agencies, forums and task forces that have been established in 2012; the number of new employees there are as a result of this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52258/12]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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No new State agencies, forums or task forces have been established by my Department in 2012.