Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 13 Feb 2003

Vol. 561 No. 3

Written Answers. - Departmental Staff.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

54 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of civil servants employed in his Department for the years 1995 to 2003; and the number of these who were employed in the rural development section. [3973/03]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The information requested by the Deputy is as follows:

	December1996	December1996	December1997	December1998	December1999	December2000	December2001	*Sepember2002
*Total	4,045	3,961	3,973	4,077	4,113	4,172	4,452	4,546
Rural Development	27	27	27	27	27	27	31	31

* Figures supplied refer to full-time equivalent posts.

A total of 31 staff were employed in the rural development area in 2002 prior to their transfer to the Department of Community Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.

Denis Naughten

Question:

55 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason he is reducing the level of staff available to carry out inspections at export plants here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3883/03]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

There is no reduction in the level of staff assigned to carry out inspections at export plants. The Department is obliged to use its resources in an efficient and effective manner and to remain within the budget allocated to it. These requirements necessitate a cut back in costly overtime.