Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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336. To ask the Minister for Finance the number of civil servants under his remit that have been reinstated in recent years after taking a career break; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38726/15]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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I wish to inform the Deputy that the legislation in relation to career breaks is the Civil Service Regulation Acts 1956-2006. A career break consists of special leave without pay for a period of not less than six months and not more than five years if taken for reasons of family, domestic, travel or educational purposes. A limit of three years applies if availing of employment in the private sector or becoming self-employed.

A career break may be extended in six monthly periods or in periods in excess of six months provided the total period of special leave without pay does not exceed the maximum permitted.  Subject to certain conditions eligible staff may, in general avail of three career breaks during their career provided the total period does not exceed twelve years.

Where a civil servant has previously taken a career break(s), s/he must be currently working in the Civil Service for a period of time which is either the same or longer than the length of his/her previous career break before s/he can apply for a second or third career break.

The scheme is promoted as being one of a number of schemes which facilitates staff in combining work and family responsibilities.  The number of staff in my Department who have returned from a Career Break in the last two years is three. Currently ten staff in my Department are availing of a Career Break.