Decentralisation Programme.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 May 2004

Thursday, 6 May 2004

Questions (29)

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

23 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance if, in regard to his decentralisation proposals, a survey has been carried out generally to establish the number of public servants willing to transfer to new locations; if not, if such a survey is planned; if the move will be voluntary and no public servant will suffer in regard to career options or promotional opportunities if they do not wish to move to a new location; if his attention has been drawn to the serious concern that has been expressed by various trade unions representing virtually all grades in the public service at the implication of the proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12973/04]

Written answers

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

No central survey of civil and public servants has been carried out to date to ascertain the number seeking transfer to the decentralised locations. In accordance with the recommendations of the decentralisation implementation group, a central applications facility will be opened next week to receive applications from those willing to relocate. This facility will also provide information on the towns to which the organisations will transfer. As the Government has made clear from the outset participation in the programme is voluntary and any public servant not wishing to relocate will be offered an alternative public service post in Dublin. The same number of promotion opportunities will continue to exist across the public service but in the future will reflect the geographical spread of staff.

Since the budget announcement of the decentralisation programme regular discussions have been taking place not only with the Civil Service unions but also with the ICTU group of unions representing staff in the State agencies. These discussions will continue with a view to addressing the concerns of the unions in the ongoing implementation of the programme.