asked the Minister for the Public Service if the standstill on the creation of new posts in the public service applies to scientists engaged on research and development work.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Public Service Posts.
32.
Because of the rapidly escalating cost of the public service, steps are being taken to ensure that there is very strict control over expansion consistent with the provision of adequate services. A special effort is being made to improve efficiency and to reduce as far as possible, through redeployment of staff, the need for additional posts. New posts are being created only where it is clearly established that there is an immediate and essential need for more staff. This policy applies to all branches of the public service other than the operational security services.