Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 19 Oct 1995

Vol. 457 No. 3

Written Answers. - Meteorological Officer Posts.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

109 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the number of meteorological officer posts which have been filled following the competition held earlier in 1995; the reason some candidates were called for medical examinations in September and then informed that it is not proposed to proceed with the filling of vacancies at this time consequent on a Government decision of 6 June 1995; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that some candidates have given up other employment on the expectation of their imminent appointment following medical examination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15281/95]

Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications (Mr. Lowry)

Four candidates have been appointed as meteorological officers following the competition held earlier this year. It is expected that others will be appointed over time depending on vacancies arising and with due regard to administrative budget limitations. Details on medical clearance and offers of appointment are a matter for the Civil Service Commission, but until a written offer of appointment is received no offer of employment exists. It would be unusual for a candidate to give up employment until such an offer had been received.