Vol. 524 No. 3
165 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the number of vacancies for each Civil Service grade in his Department; the additional steps he will take to attract and keep staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22611/00]
At any particular time a number of posts in my Department are unfilled. This number currently stands at about 55, comprising posts in grades as follows: two principal officer, some 13 higher executive officer, 15 executive officer, three staff officer, 20 clerical officer and two services officer. Arrangements are in train to fill these posts in the normal way.
Recruitment to permanent civil service posts is the function of the Civil Service Commissioners.
The measures which are taken by my Department in order to retain staff include a comprehensive and timely induction programme for all new employees, significant emphasis on training and development, the refund of fees scheme under which employees may pursue courses of education relevant to their work and qualify for full-partial refund of fees and a range of family friendly arrangements.
