Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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995. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of staff by grade from his Department that have been deployed to Dublin Port, Rosslare Port and Dublin Airport to deal with Brexit related issues; and if his staff are present at these locations on a 24-7 basis. [6606/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine engages staff in portal locations to carry out a variety of duties, including inspections and the facilitation of sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) controls. My Department has been engaged in strategic workforce planning to deliver on the increased requirements to meet these responsibilities since the UK voted to leave the European Union in June 2016.

As of 8th February 2021, there are 251 staff resources in place and available to undertake DAFM activities in the locations specified. This includes staff across administrative, professional and technical grades who range from those specifically recruited for Brexit, to experienced DAFM staff who have been redeployed to ports, as well as a small cohort of contracted veterinary practitioners.

Staff at Dublin Port provide 24/7 cover in areas required, while other portal locations use shift patterns appropriate to local requirements. As the situation evolves post-Brexit, scope remains for further assessment of resource provision in line with evolving requirements. My officials continue to monitor the situation and will make any necessary adjustments, in line with operational needs.