asked the Taoiseach whether the amalgamation of existing ministries or the creation of new ministries is under consideration.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ministerial Amalgamation.
5.
The amalgamation of existing ministries is not contemplated. An enabling Bill will shortly be introduced for the creation of the new Public Service Department.
Would the Taoiseach refresh my memory on this point? I recall that we had an agreement that there would be a new Ministry for Planning. Deputy Blaney's name, incidentally, was mentioned. I presume that this would not apply now. Can the Taoiseach say whether any new ministries are being planned or whether he is satisfied with the performance of the people in his Cabinet? Can the Taoiseach say whether any new ministry is contemplated, especially one for physical planning?
No, except what I have just mentioned. The Deputy will recall, if I may refresh his memory still further, that shortly after I made the announcement here of my desire to see the planning ministry established the Devlin Report was published which seemed to run counter to what I felt was right.
(Cavan): A few other reports were published since then.
Order.
(Interruptions.)
Would the Taoiseach say in broad terms what will be the functions of the Minister for Public Services?
That is a separate question.
I could not give these details to the Deputy. Before I was interrupted I wished to say that we regard the establishment of this ministry as fundamental to the whole Devlin Report. We feel that when this ministry is set up we will have an opportunity of seeing to what extent it would be possible and desirable to implement other parts of the Devlin Report.