Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 October 2016
8. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Taoiseach the way in which staff, civil servants and political advisers are retained to manage relationships with Members of Dáil groups, including groups and parties involved with Government; and the location of each. [29303/16]
View answerA Parliamentary Liaison Unit was established in my Department following the formation of Government on 6th May 2016. The Parliamentary Liaison Unit facilitates an enhanced relationship between the Government and the Oireachtas with a view to ensuring the timely implementation of the Government’s legislative programme, working in close collaboration with the Office of the Chief Whip and my Department's Programme for Government Office. There are currently 3 civil servants (2.8 whole time equivalents) assigned to the Parliamentary Liaison Unit.
My Department also employs five Special Advisers (three who advise me and two who advise the Government Chief Whip) and the Chief Strategist to the Independent Alliance.
All of the aforementioned staff are based in Government Buildings.
