asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement regarding the application of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7 for a career break; and if he will give details of the guidelines used in the granting of such approvals.
Written Answers. - Career Break.
32.
The application referred to was made on 22 July 1987 and refused on 29 July 1987. Subsequent appeals against the decision were rejected.
Details of the guidelines for the operation of the scheme are included in Circular 28/86, a copy of which has been lodged in the Oireachtas library. The following amendments have been introduced since the date of issue of the circular:—
(i) the maximum period of a career break has been extended to five years
(ii) vacancies arising from career breaks are not being filled except in the most exceptional circumstances and with the consent of the Minister for Finance.
The grant of an application for a career break is not automatic. Every application is considered on its merits and where possible the career break is allowed. The needs of the work may require that some applications will have to be refused for example in cases where scarce skills are involved.