andMr. Power asked the Taoiseach the number of staff vacancies in his Department on 1st January, 1976.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Departmental Staff Vacancies.
1.
The answer is one.
Is it hoped to fill that vacancy?
No.
2.
andMr. Power asked the Minister for Justice the number of staff vacancies in his Department on 1st January, 1976.
The number of staff vacancies in my Department on 1st January, 1976, was 122.
What is the reason for that number?
The main reason is because the establishment for the prison service was increased by 111 during the year 1975 and it was not found possible to fill all those new posts during that year. The figure of 122 has been reduced to 93 since 1st March so the number is coming down steadily.
Is it hoped to fill all the vacancies?
I cannot say. It is a matter for the Civil Service Commission and they are proceeding to fill the vacancies.
In view of the general dissatisfaction with the number of men on the beat, would the Minister consider increasing the police force with a view to deploying extra men on these duties?
The Deputy is expanding on the question.
For the Deputy's information, the Garda Síochána is at the highest figure ever in the history of the State. The entire manpower numbers and their deployment is a question that is under examination by consultants and I cannot give any indication in advance of their report.
When are the consultants expected to submit their report?
Within the next couple of months.