I propose to take Questions Nos. 351 to 353, inclusive, together.
No staff from my Department have been seconded to external private firms nor were any staff seconded from such firms into my Department during the period in question.
A Superintending Veterinary Inspector from my Department has been seconded to Animal Health Ireland, which is a limited liability company part funded by my Department. Similarly, two Executive Officers are seconded to Horse Sport Ireland which is also a limited liability company part funded by my Department.
A small number of other staff from my Department have been seconded to other public sector bodies or semi state agencies. The nature of any secondment is considered on its own merits and bearing in mind the purpose of the secondment. In all cases, seconded staff retain their Civil Service status and pay and conditions.