asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that there is a vacancy for a district court clerk in Kenmare, County Kerry; and, if so, how he proposes to fill the vacancy.
Written Answers. - Kenmare (Kerry) Court Clerk Post.
564.
The future of the District Court office in Kenmare is under review at present following the occurrence of a vacancy there consequent on the retirement of the clerk-in-charge. The review arises under the terms of a productivity agreement which was concluded with the provincial District Court staff in 1973 as the basis for an improvement in their pay and grading structure. An essential element of the agreement is that the overall number of District Court offices be gradually reduced from 59 to about 40 as opportunities occur. The question that arises at the moment is whether the Kenmare office might be amalgamated with neighbouring offices such as Killarney. The review is not yet fully completed and accordingly I have not taken any decision in the matter. The Deputy may be assured that before taking a decision I will give very careful consideration to all aspects of the matter including the convenience of the public in the area.