Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

547. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 210 of 23 March 2022, if he will carry out a review on the travel expenses of public health nurses and community RGNs as a matter of urgency (details supplied) given the current increases in fuel costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19643/22]

Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

It is established policy that travel for work in the civil and public service should, where possible, be by public transport.  Where this is not possible, mileage payments may be made and mileage arrangements are designed to recoup travelling officers for expenses genuinely incurred in respect of work related travel and should not be viewed as a source of emolument or profit.

Motor travel rates were last reviewed in 2017 and the current rates are set out in Circular 05/2017: Motor Travel Rates. These rates are currently being reviewed by my officials and work is ongoing on devising new rates reflecting current input costs.  Proposals for revised rates will be discussed, as per existing agreements, with staff representative associations.

It is anticipated that the review will be completed shortly with a view to seeking agreement with staff representative associations by the end of the second quarter of this year.

The Deputy will be aware that the Government has already reduced  Excise Duty by 20 cent per litre of petrol and 15 cent per litre of diesel, on the 9^thof March 2022.