asked the Minister for Labour the appointments made in his Department since 15th March, 1973, other than through the Civil Service Commission; and if he will state in respect of each appointment (a) the grade, (b) the title of the post, (c) the qualifications required, (d) the salary and (e) the terms of employment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Departmental Appointments.
3.
A personal assistant was appointed on 20th March, 1973. The qualifications required were satisfactory secretarial skill and experience. The salary is £1,814 per annum and the appointment is temporary.
A personal assistant on industrial affairs was appointed on 16th July, 1973. The qualifications required were satisfactory knowledge of industrial affairs and experience in employer/ employee negotiations. The officer, who is seconded to my Department from a State body, is on a salary scale of £3.329 to £3,686 per annum.
A Press officer was also engaged for a short period but is no longer employed.
In relation to the personal assistant or Ministerial companion, can the Minister say whether every effort was made to obtain the best qualified person for the post?
Yes.
Does this indicate that it will be the policy of the Government in future to appoint people in this way rather than in the normal way to the Civil Service?
It does not. I do not think any such observation would follow.
It would appear that the Minister, and members of the Government, are now making a habit of appointing personnel without reference to the Civil Service Commission or other bodies. Has the Minister made any provision for redundancy payments to members of the Civil Service Commission?
That seems to be a separate question. Question No. 4.
What additional information and undertakings did the Minister give to the Taoiseach before having this man employed? I understand the Taoiseach had an objection to this man at an early stage.
I think the Deputy should stick to his question and stop dipping into Alice in Wonderland.
Question No. 4.
Further arising from——
The Deputy has had six supplementaries. The Chair has called Question No. 4.
A Cheann Comhairle——
The Deputy will please resume his seat. The Deputy has asked six or seven supplementaries.
In view of the unsatisfactory reply, I wish to raise the matter on the Adjournment.
The Chair will communicate with the Deputy.