Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 30 Mar 1994

Vol. 440 No. 8

Written Answers. - Staff Transfer.

John Connor

Question:

61 Mr. Connor asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if he will make a statement on the proposed transfer of three officers of his Department employed in the Farm Development Service in north County Roscommon to an office out of the county in Carrick-on-Shannon, County Leitrim; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the transfer, if proceeded with, will adversely affect the service to the availing farmers; if it is policy to headquarter staff where and when office accommodation becomes available in an area; and if officers operating from home offices in south County Leitrim are not the more appropriate employees to whom new office space is first offered.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry, (Mr. J. Walsh)

A review of staffing arrangements in the Farm Development Service of my Department is being undertaken countrywide to ensure efficient implementation of schemes in the most cost effective manner. The office in Carrick-on-Shannon, located on the Roscommon border, is geographically well located to service north Roscommon. I am satisfied that the transfers will not adversely affect the service to farmers in that area. It is the policy of my Department, where possible, to headquarter staff where and when office accommodation becomes available. The officers engaged in the Farm Development Service in County Leitrim are strategically located throughout the county, including Carrick-on-Shannon, to service farmers in that county.

All areas of work within my Department are subject to review on a regular basis to ensure the most efficient use of resources available.