Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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100. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his views on a scheme (details supplied ); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49160/19]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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As Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, I have responsibility for the non-pay terms and conditions for the Civil Service. Other Ministers are responsible for the non-pay terms and conditions in the wider public service.

A Special Civil Service Incentive Career Break Scheme was introduced in 2009. There are no current plans to reintroduce this scheme or something similar.

Staff can still apply for unpaid career breaks which allows us, as an employer, to retain staff in cases where they need some time away from work to focus on other opportunities including focusing on family.

The Civil Service is also a leader in the field of flexible working. We estimate that about 17% of our workforce are currently on flexible work arrangements that include work-sharing and shorter worker year.