As the Deputy is aware my Department are now engaged in formal negotiations, under the auspices of the Workplace Relations Commission, on the potential of a successor agreement to Building Momentum. A range of issues are being discussed as part of this and it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the specifics at this time.
In relation to the current appraisal categories, since 2016, there has been a two-point system in place for the Performance Management and Development System (PMDS) rating system. Performance is evaluated on whether or not the jobholder has performed to a satisfactory level (satisfactory or unsatisfactory).
The current appraisal system was discussed and agreed with the representatives of civil service management and the staff unions at the General Council Subcommittee on PMDS.