Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 29 Mar 2001

Vol. 533 No. 5

Written Answers. - Departmental Posts.

John Browne

Question:

19 Mr. Browne (Carlow-Kilkenny) asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the number of personnel who applied for the position of livestock valuer as advertised in September 2000; when and by whom the criteria was decided on; the number who have now been appointed; the numbers who have taken up their posts; the reason many top quality part-time farmers were not called for interview while cattle traders and others involved as factory agents were shortlisted; and if he will make a statement on the success of the new scheme. [9120/01]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

Approximately 600 written applications for appointment as valuers were received by the closing deadline. These applications were from a wide range of backgrounds, including farming. The applications were considered in my Department.

The criteria used for shortlisting applicants for further screening and interviews was based on evidence produced with their written applications as to their experience and previous involvement in the valuation of bovine animals.

Following detailed screening procedures 46 of the applicants have been placed on a panel set up for this scheme. None of those placed on the current panel are cattle traders or factory agents but it does include a number of farmers.

The panel will be extended when the remaining group of applicants which mainly includes farmers, both full-time and part-time, are fully screened. This process will take place as soon as the restrictions under the foot and mouth disease have been lifted.

I am pleased to state that the valuation system, which has been introduced on a phased basis since last February, has been operating satisfactorily. To date, approximately 120 valuations involving TB and brucellosis reactor breakdowns have been carried out and about half the valuers on the panel have been used. The remainder will be allocated valuation work as it arises in their areas.