Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 July 2022
384. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the timeline for the recruitment of new directorates and the recruitment of 60 key staff for critically important roles within the National Parks and Wildlife Service as indicated in the strategic action plan for the service; the current number of staff recruited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39484/22]
View answerThe Strategic Action Plan for the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) sets out an ambitious timeline for a full organisational restructuring of the NPWS, and a substantial €55 million additional investment in the organisation across three budgetary cycles, together with the accelerated early recruitment of at least 60 key staff for critically important roles.
This Plan aims to deliver a NPWS that is more resilient, better resourced, and better equipped to play its part in Ireland’s response to the biodiversity emergency on the national and international stage. It will equip the NPWS with the organisational capability and supporting structures to enable it to deliver its mandate in protecting our natural heritage.
The restructured Directorates are largely in place. The recruitment of 60 key staff has commenced. These staff are across all grades and specialisms, including the new Engagement, Corporate. Five new Divisional Managers are currently being appointed, as are specialists in the areas of Ecology, Marine Habitats and Species and Legislation amongst others. In addition, I have also secured agreement to increase the number of conservation rangers from 83 to 120 and work is underway with the Public Appointments Service to achieve this.
