Public Service Staff

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 February 2012

Tuesday, 28 February 2012

Questions (67)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

109 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the way it is intended to reduce to 282,000 by 2015 the numbers employed in the civil and public service; the number who are expected to leave because they have reached pension age; if it is intended that those leaving will do so on a voluntary basis; if he intends to adopt a targeted approach by Department or sector; if an overall risk assessment been done, and if so, the findings of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11532/12]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Brendan Howlin)

The Government is committed to reducing Public Service numbers to 282,500 by 2015. I believe that our end-2012 target of 294,400 will be delivered through retirements in accordance with existing arrangements. Following the end of the grace period, my Department will review the numbers position across the public service this year and out to 2015 and will assess the means through which our targets can most effectively be met while maintaining service delivery in critical areas.