Mary Mitchell O'Connor (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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323. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of public servants under the aegis of his Department that were seconded abroad or to another Department in 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20065/15]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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In response to the Deputy's question the table provides information on the numbers of staff who were seconded from my Department and the bodies under my aegis during 2014.

Secondment opportunities are recognised as a valuable means for developing employees and developing the skills bases within the Department and wider Civil Service. Secondment opportunities arise for staff where specialist skills and experience are required for a specific project either nationally or internationally. Staff may also identify an opportunity in another organisation that will develop their career in their area of specialism. The experience and skills acquired during their secondments ensures that they can make an effective contribution to meet the demands of modern government and the expectations of the Department's customers and stakeholders. 

The Office of Public Works were unable to provide a response in the time permitted but have assured me that they will respond directly to you shortly.