Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 20 Mar 2002

Vol. 550 No. 4

Written Answers. - Public Sector Recruitment.

Michael Ring

Question:

288 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance the reason there are no formal application forms for recruitment to positions through the Civil Service and Local Appointment Commissioners; the reason for introducing applications over the telephone; the way in which call details are logged; the procedure in place when a person claimed to have made an application but there is no record of the telephone call; the person who is held responsible for errors when the application is completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8439/02]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am informed by the Office of the Civil Service and Local Appointments Commissioners that the ability to make applications over the telephone was introduced for some competitions in September 2001 with a view to improving the quality of service to candidates and the speed of appointments to client departments.

When a prospective candidate calls the application centre they are asked a number of basic questions which reflect the information requested on an application form. All calls are automatically logged, detailing exact time, duration and nature of call, be it an inquiry or full application. There is therefore always documentary evidence of a call.

In all cases the details recorded are checked back and confirmed with the caller. This means that the likelihood of information being incorrectly logged is virtually nil as the caller has the opportunity to correct any misinformation given. Candidates who have any queries or complaints relating to their application can contact the recruitment section appropriate to their particu lar competition. Any dispute which may subsequently arise would be investigated and pursued with the individual concerned. This would also be the case in competitions where the traditional method of application is used.

To date the CSLAC has found that this method has the following benefits: a significant streamlining of the administrative process, ensuring efficiency and cost effectiveness by reducing delays, and thereby enabling delivery on target dates for competitions; substantial savings in postage, staff time and data entry; and elimination of risk of post going astray leading to an overall improved customer service to candidates. For the balance of competitions there are formal application forms for recruitment through the CSLAC.