Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail)
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270. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the way a person (details supplied) can apply to gain experience in the public sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11177/22]

Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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As Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, I have policy responsibility for recruitment to the civil service.  The Public Appointments Service (PAS) is the primary recruiter for the civil and public service, with all recruitment undertaken in line with the CPSA Code of Practice for Appointments to the Civil and Public Service.  

A limited number of structured paid internships are currently facilitated by Government Departments or Offices.  These are presently managed locally by the respective Department / Office and provide paid work experience opportunities for current third level students in collaboration with third level institutes.  A small number of paid internships are also reserved for individuals from underrepresented groups within the civil service including those with a disability. 

In relation to opportunities for unpaid work experience in the civil or public service, an individual must make direct contact with the HR Unit in a particular body to express their interest in any such opportunities.   Short unpaid work experience visits are facilitated locally via schools for second level students of schools in proximity to civil service offices.  In the case of third level graduates, their third level institute’s Careers Office or a Course Coordinator may have professional networks with regional employers that may be assistance in exploring such opportunities in a particular discipline or area.

Civil Service Renewal 2024 is the first of a series of three Action Plans under the Civil Service Renewal 2030 Strategy approved by Government.  This commits the civil service to “review current and create additional pathways to attract and develop talented people to work in the Civil Service, including those from new and diverse communities”.    This will include an examination of an expanded role of internships more generally for second level and third level students in terms of promoting career within the civil service for school leavers and third level graduates. 

The Deputy may wish to note that PAS is presently advertising a Temporary Clerical Officer competition on www.publicjobs.ie to fill vacancies that may arise on a temporary basis nationwide across the civil service. Availing of short-term roles provides an opportunity to gain practical paid work experience in the civil service.  Candidates may register a profile with PAS at www.publicjobs.ie and opt to receive notifications for future roles that PAS advertise on behalf of public service employers.