Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 5 Nov 1992

Vol. 424 No. 10

Ceisteanna — Questions. Written Answers. - Overseas Aid Workers.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

100 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether there has been a disimprovement in the conditions of service of those serving overseas and supported through the Official Aid Programme either directly or by APSO and in particular in relation to superannuation and travel costs; if so, the reason this has occurred; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Andrews)

I am deeply conscious of the contribution which Irish volunteer workers make in the developing world. The Government are most anxious to ensure that every encouragement is given to Irish people who wish to offer their services whether through the Bilateral Aid Programme, through assignment with APSO or through the non-governmental organisations. We try to ensure that the conditions of service of such personnel are maintained at an attractive level.

The superannuation cost for those who are assigned through the Bilateral Aid Programme (BAP) were significantly improved in 1991 when provision was made to pay employees recruited from the private sector a special contribution to enable them to pay into private superannuation schemes.

The payment of superannuation costs by APSO has been modified in recent years. Up to 1986 APSO paid the superannuation costs on behalf of all of its assignees. The sum was calculated at 18 per cent of the individual's current salary. APSO found the cost prohibitively high. In 1986 APSO restricted its payment of superannuation to limited categories of personnel (those over 40, or under 40 with dependants). Finally, in 1991, APSO terminated this arrangement for all new assignees partly because of continuing financial pressure and partly because the arrangement could have been considered discriminatory.

With regard to travel arrangements for those employed by APSO, I understand that since its establishment in 1974, APSO has operated a consistent policy of funding the cost of assignees' travel to and from their country of assignment by the cheapest safe route possible. This policy has proved to be practical and cost effective.