The information requested by the Deputy regarding advisory staff employed in support of the Minister for Health and Ministers of State at the Department is detailed below:
Minister
|
1981
|
2011
|
2013
|
Dr. Michael Woods, T.D.
|
* 1 Political Advisor
|
-
|
-
|
Dr. James Reilly T.D. Minister for Health
|
-
|
1 Press Advisor
1 Special Advisor
|
1 Press Advisor
1 Special Advisor
|
Róisín Shortall T.D. Minister of State
|
-
|
0.5 work sharer - Special Advisor
|
-
|
Alex White T.D. Minister of State
|
-
|
-
|
1 Special Advisor
|
* Despite extensive searches, it is not possible to confirm if there were any other advisors / political staff employed in support of the Minister / Ministers of State in 1981.
The above numbers do not include permanent members of the civil service staff of the Department who may be engaged in functions related to general press and communications work.