Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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153. To ask the Minister for Finance the number of economists he employs, specifically on banking policy; his plans to increase this number; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14226/16]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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Since 2011 the Department has implemented organisational changes with the aim of developing a modern, professional and forward-looking Department. We have adapted, realigned and enhanced our resources in order to achieve the goals we set ourselves.  This has involved the building and expanding of the economic expertise and capability across the Department.

A total of 44 staff within the Department hold a Masters in Economics qualification (a further three staff are in the process of completing their Masters of Economics study). 

Staff across all grades in the Department hold qualifications in Economics at Certificate, Diploma, Degree, Masters and PhDs levels.

All staff within the Economics Division hold a Masters in Economics or higher qualification and resources have been recently allocated within that division dealing with monetary and financial economic analysis.

In addition, staff within the Banking Division hold a total of 50 qualifications.  Three staff from this Division hold a Masters in Economics qualification.

The Department continues to grow its expertise in the area of economics through the recruitment of staff via the Irish Government Economic and Evaluation Service (IGEES) and also through recruitment via the Public Appointment Service (PAS).

Through the Refund of Fees Scheme, staff participate in learning leading to an accredited qualification and support is offered to staff who undertake Masters in Economic Policy through this Scheme. It is expected that further applications for this course will be made for the 2016/2017 academic year to further strengthen the level of economic knowledge within the Department.