Written Answers Nos. 278-286
278. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine which Department is responsible for the implementation of the national hedgerow survey, as per Programme for Government commitments; and to outline the progress made on that commitment. [14205/23]
View answerIn 2019, an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Funded Project, the Biomass Retrieval in Ireland using Active Remote (BRIAR) sensing project, conducted by Teagasc, estimated that Ireland has an estimated national hedgerow length of 689,000km.
In line with the commitment in Programme for Government regarding a national hedgerow survey, my Department has mapped farmland hedgerows nationally as part of the preparations for the new CAP Strategic Plan. The planned Farm Environmental Study (FES) will include a qualitative assessment of hedgerows on participating farms.
The National Land Cover Map produced by Tailte Éireann (formerly Ordnance Survey of Ireland) in partnership with the EPA that was published earlier this week will also assist in progressing this commitment.
279. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has instructed the QMAC to examine measures to strengthen the management arrangements for the 2023 mackerel hook and line fishery given the unjustifiable inequity of the present Irish mackerel quota allocation arrangement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14127/23]
View answer282. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has instructed the Quota Management Advisory Committee to examine measures to strengthen the management arrangements for the 2023 mackerel hook and line fishery given the unjustifiable inequity of the present Irish mackerel quota allocation arrangement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14287/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 279 and 282 together.
In early 2022, I asked the Quota Management Advisory Committee (QMAC) to examine measures to strengthen the management arrangements for the 2022 Mackerel Hook and Line Fishery, within policy, for my consideration. A working group was set up involving industry representatives and my Department officials and recommendations made, approved by me, were put in place for the management of the 2022 fishery.
In preparation for the 2023 Fishery, I have asked Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) to explore how marketing opportunities could be developed for the Mackerel Hook and Line Fishery. BIM have advised that they are working with Bord Bia and an external provider, and that work is progressing well. The project group are involved in stakeholder interviews and consultation with National Inshore Fisheries Forum (NIFF), Irish Islands Marine Resource Organisation (IIMRO), National Inshore Fisherman’s Association (NIFA), processors, retail, fishmongers, seafood restaurants and food service. The project is due to be reported on at the end of March.
Following on from the project, BIM hope to explore with Bord Bia the potential for running a marketing campaign for hook and line mackerel to align with the fishing season.
I am confident that it will help build up the return for this valuable fishery.
The role of the QMAC is to make recommendations for the management of the quota within existing policy. At the February 2023 Quota Management Advisory Committee Meeting, industry representatives recommended that the fishery be opened in March and that the management arrangements applied in 2022 should remain in place for 2023. They recommended that the fishery open on the 20th of March with a 4.50t catch limit for the period 20th March to 30th of April. To maintain quota for the remainder of the year, the fishery will be closed by Fishery Management Notice for the month of April if the Department is advised by the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) that 150 tonnes has been taken. Recommendations on per vessel catch limits for May and subsequent months to be made at the relevant Quota Management Advisory Committee (QMAC) meeting.
280. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a forestry felling licence will issue to a person (details supplied); the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14147/23]
View answerAs regards the felling license application TFL00162718, my officials continue to engage proactively with the applicant and his representatives. Meetings have been organised by officials of my Department with a view to progressing this felling licence application, in what is an environmentally extremely challenging site. The applicant is aware that further information ) is being sought to address the outstanding issues, before the file can be advertised again and statutory bodies, including Inland Fisheries Ireland, National Parks and Wildlife Service & Galway County Council be consulted.
Forestry Division has prioritised this file for action and officials will be in touch with the applicant as soon as the file progresses.
281. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the scientific basis for the 500m threshold in relation to hedgerow removal under EIA (Agriculture) Regulations (S.I. 456 of 2011 as amended); whether his Department has ever conducted any analysis of the integrity of, or provided a rationale for, that 500m threshold; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14204/23]
View answerThe Environmental Impact Assessment (Agriculture) (EIA) Regulations came into effect in September 2011 and were amended in 2013 and 2017.
These Regulations were introduced following European Court of Justice rulings that Ireland had failed to adequately implement certain aspects of the EIA Directive (EU cases C215-06 and C66-06). The development of these Regulations and the associated thresholds included discussion and consultation with the European Commission.
The thresholds for proposed hedgerow removal where screening applications are required under the Regulations are:
- any length of field boundary above 500 metres proposed to be removed or
- any proposed removal of field boundaries to create a field area greater than 5 hectares.
If the proposed removal would breach either of these thresholds the farmer is required to submit a screening application to my Department.
I have committed to a review of these Regulations and my officials will commence a consultation process on this matter with all relevant stakeholders in the near future.
In the case of hedgerow removals, irrespective of length and including where this is below these thresholds, farmers in receipt of Direct Payment supports are still required to comply with Conditionality requirements under the CAP Strategic Plan.
This Conditionality means that removal of hedgerows is only permitted in certain exceptional circumstances for example, road safety or to accommodate a building extension. It is also important to note that where any hedgerow is being removed, as of 1 January 2023 there is a requirement to replace twice the length of hedgerow in advance of removal. Prior to this the requirement was to replace equivalent length of hedgerow.
Under the 'eco-scheme' element of the new CAP strategic plan, from 2023 hedgerows are also now being rewarded through payments for 'space for nature'.
283. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he is taking to monitor the activities of super trawlers operating in Irish territorial waters, including his views on requiring CCTV monitoring to be installed on such vessels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14289/23]
View answerCouncil Regulation 1224/2009, known as the Control Regulation, establishes a Community control system for ensuring compliance with the rules of the Common Fisheries Policy and establishing a level-playing field across the EU on fisheries control. In 2018, the Commission published a proposal to amend the Control Regulation. Negotiations on the proposal are ongoing at a political trilogue level between the EU Council, the EU Commission and the European Parliament.
I am supportive of many of the proposed changes in the Commission proposal that strengthen the EU arrangements for control, inspection and enforcement. Regarding Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) measures such as on-board CCTV, Ireland is supportive of the introduction of a risk-based REM system. As a Coastal Member State, we are seeking access to the data gathered within this system on a near real time basis to support the work of the Naval Service and the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority. This a critically important tool given the control obligations that Ireland has in respect of all vessels operating in our 200 mile zone.
The Department continues to engage fully in the negotiation process and continues to be actively involved in the ongoing discussions.
284. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he is taking to work with European counterparts to prohibit the operation of super trawlers operating in the territorial waters of member states; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14290/23]
View answerThe Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is a set of rules for managing European fishing fleets and for conserving fish stocks. Under this policy, EU fishing fleets are given equal access to EU waters and fishing grounds subject to allocated fish quotas. Fishing vessels, irrespective of size, must comply with the rules of the CFP, including rules on access and catch limits/quota.
In relation to access to Irish coastal waters, I would point out that all foreign fishing vessels, on the north-west coast, are excluded from Ireland's 12 mile fishing zone, other than for transit purposes. All foreign pelagic fishing vessels are also precluded from fishing in Ireland's 12 mile fishing zone on the west coast. Irish fishing vessels greater than or equal to 36.58m (120 feet) in length are also precluded from fishing in Ireland's 12 mile zone.
Ireland's control authorities, the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) and the Naval Service, are responsible for the monitoring and control of fishing vessels, including large fishing vessels targeting pelagic stocks, in our Exclusive Fisheries Zone to ensure compliance with the rules of the CFP. Under the Sea Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006, all operational issues of this nature concerning sea-fisheries control are, as a matter of law, exclusively for the SFPA and the Naval Service and I am expressly precluded from getting involved in operational matters.
285. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide data, if available, on the qualification levels (details supplied) of civil servants in his Department as of 31 December 2022; how educational attainment levels have evolved in recent years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14627/23]
View answerThe information requested is not readily available, a response will be prepared and forwarded in due course.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51.
Staff in my Department work in a wide variety of areas. There are over 60 different roles in the Department, ranging from general administrative and service roles to specialist professional positions, which include agricultural inspectorate, agricultural officers and engineering, financial, IT, laboratory, legal and veterinary roles amongst others. An academic qualification is a prerequisite for consideration for appointment for a range of such grades. Please see Appendix One for a list of the grades in my Department that require a recognised academic qualification as part of the eligibility criteria. Recruitment for my Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is facilitated by the Public Appointments Service. My Department also administers internal competitions. It is the case that staff in general service grades are not obliged to declare their academic qualifications when they join the Civil Service. OneLearning, the Civil Service shared service for staff learning and development, have recently made a Continuing Personal and Professional Development (CPPD) log available on the Learning Management System for staff where they can record education qualifications gained by them or which they are currently undertaking. Staff are encouraged to record qualifications on this system.
My Department actively supports the continuous and professional development of our staff. We facilitate staff access to second and third level education through our Funding of Academic Fees programme. This programme enables staff to build appropriate skills, expertise and participate in life-long learning. In 2022, a full review was carried out of Funding of Academic Fees policy to ensure that the programme continues to contribute to:
- Building the appropriate skills and expertise levels in my Department.
- Supporting colleagues’ efforts in their self-development.
- The enhancement of workplace performance in my Department.
Based on feedback received from the review, the curriculum was revised to include new study opportunities, and levels of financial support to colleagues were adjusted in line with increasing costs in the sector. Please see Appendix two for details of those qualifications achieved by staff in my Department in Academic years 2020/2021 and 2021/2022.
A priority detailed in the Civil Service Renewal 2024 Action Plan is the development of a skills register which will serve as a key component of strategic workforce planning and will enable the optimum use of capabilities and skills.
In terms of the evolution of educational attainment levels in recent years, according to the CSO Educational Attainment Thematic Report 2022, Ireland continues to have one of the highest rates of third level education in the EU-27 with 62 per cent of 25–34 year-olds in Ireland having a third level qualification in 2021, compared with the EU-27 average of 41 per cent. (https://www.cso.ie/en/releasesandpublications/ep/p-eda/educationalattainmentthematicreport2022)
Appendix 1
DAFM - List of grades requiring a degree as part of qualifications/eligibility
AP Cyber Security
A. A qualification at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) award (i.e. honours degree), or higher, with computing / computational modules taken in the final year.
OR
B. A qualification at Level 7 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) award (i.e. ordinary degree) in a relevant computing or computational discipline
OR
C. a Level 6 qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) qualification, in a relevant area of ICT*
HEO Cyber Security
A). A qualification at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) award (i.e. honours degree), or higher, in a relevant computing or computational discipline
OR
B). A qualification at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) award (i.e. honours degree), or higher, with computing / computational modules taken in the final year
OR
C). A qualification at Level 7 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) award (i.e. ordinary degree) in a relevant computing or computational discipline
HEO ICT
|
Technical Grades |
Degree required |
|
Technical Agricultural Officer |
Level 6 Advanced Cert in Agriculture |
|
Senior Agricultural Officer |
Level 5 Advanced Cert in Agriculture |
|
District Superintendent |
Level 5 Advanced Cert in Agriculture |
|
Area Superintendent |
Level 5 Advanced Cert in Agriculture |
|
Engineer Grade I |
A level 8 qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications in Civil Engineering or equivalent professional qualification in Civil Engineering. |
|
Engineer Grade II (Civil) |
Hold a minimum Level 8 qualification on the National Framework of Qualification in Civil Engineering, Engineers Ireland accredited. OR Hold a qualification which would be acceptable to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine as being at least equivalent for the purpose of this competition |
|
Engineer Grade III (Civil) |
Hold a minimum Level 8 qualification on the National Framework of Qualification in Civil Engineering, Engineers Ireland accredited. OR Hold a qualification which would be acceptable to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine as being at least equivalent for the purpose of this competition. |
|
ALAB Technical appeals Advisor |
Hold a primary degree qualification at level 8 Marine Biological sciences Biological sciences Engineering sciences Planning Engineering Or such other equivalent qualifications |
|
Civil Engineering Technician Grade I |
Hold a Level 6 qualification in Civil Engineering on the National Framework of Qualifications that is accredited by Engineers Ireland OR Hold a qualification which would be acceptable to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine as being at least equivalent for the purpose of this competition |
|
Civil Engineering Technician Grade II |
At a minimum hold a Level 6 qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications in Civil Engineering, Engineers Ireland accredited OR Hold a qualification which would be acceptable to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine as being at least equivalent to the above for the purpose of this competition |
|
Craft Worker (Carpentry) |
A recognized qualification as a carpenter at a minimum of NFQ Level 6 or equivalent. Note: If apprenticeship served in this, evidence of exams completed successfully will be necessary and copies should be submitted with your application. |
|
Harbour Master |
(i) Hold a Certificate of Competency as Master or Chief Mate STCW, as amended, Reg. II/2, for vessels in the unlimited trading area, without limitations on type of ships, valid for service or eligible to be validated for service, in the Irish Merchant Marine. and have at least one year’s satisfactory sea service as Master or Chief Mate or a combination of both. OR (ii) Be serving, or have served, in the Permanent Defence Force of the State and hold, or have held, the commissioned naval rank of Lieutenant Commander or Lieutenant, And have at least one year’s satisfactory sea service in command of a naval ship(s), OR (iii) Hold a Skipper’s Full Certificate of Competency and, subsequent to receipt of that Certificate, have at least one year’s service as skipper of an Irish sea-fishing vessel of 24 metres or over in length. |
|
Inspectorate Grades |
Degree required |
|
Assistant Agricultural Inspector (various streams) |
Entry level grade. Hold a primary degree qualification at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). |
|
Agricultural Inspector (various streams) |
Promotional grade. Hold a primary degree qualification at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). |
|
Veterinary Grades |
Degree required |
|
Chief Veterinary Officer |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Senior Superintendent Veterinary Inspector |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Superintendent Veterinary Inspector |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Veterinary Inspector |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Senior Research Officer - Veterinary |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Research Officer - Veterinary |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Epidemiologist - Veterinary |
Post-graduate MSc or PhD qualification in epidemiology, or another closely related area such as public health or animal health |
|
Laboratory Grades |
Degree required |
|
Head of Agriculture Laboratories |
An honours primary degree i.e. level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications in Agricultural Science, Chemistry, or a relevant Bioscience related to the work of the post. |
|
Chief Analyst |
Minimum Level 7 Degree on NQF in applied science discipline |
|
Deputy Chief Analyst |
Minimum Level 7 Degree on NQF in applied science discipline |
|
Head of Bacteriology |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Head of Food Chemistry |
Minimum Level 8 Degree on NQF in applied science discipline |
|
Head of Plant Science |
Minimum Level 8 Degree on NQF in basic or applied science discipline |
|
Senior Laboratory Analyst |
Minimum Level 7 Degree on NQF in appropriate science discipline |
|
Laboratory Analyst - Biology |
Minimum Level 7 Degree on NQF in bio related science discipline |
|
Laboratory Analyst – Chemistry |
Minimum Level 7 Degree on NQF in chemistry related science discipline |
|
Quality Manager |
A degree, i.e. level 7 on the National Framework of Qualifications in a relevant scientific discipline. |
|
Biosecurity Officer |
Minimum Level 7 Degree on NQF in appropriate science discipline |
|
Social Scientist |
Hold a qualification in an area of Social Science at a minimum of level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications |
|
IMT Grades |
Degree required |
|
Earth Observation Specialist |
A. A qualification at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) major award, or higher, in Earth Observation, Remote Sensing Technologies, GIS or a related field. OR B) A qualification at Level 8 on the NFQ or higher, with an additional higher qualification (Masters or PhD) in Earth Observation, Remote Sensing, GIS or a related field. |
|
A. A qualification at Level 7 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) major award (i.e. ordinary degree), or higher, in a relevant computing or computational discipline OR B) A qualification at Level 8 on the NFQ major award (i.e. honours degree), or higher, with computing/ computational modules taken in the final |
|
Technical Grades |
Degree required |
|
Technical Agricultural Officer |
Level 6 Advanced Cert in Agriculture |
|
Senior Agricultural Officer |
Level 5 Advanced Cert in Agriculture |
|
District Superintendent |
Level 5 Advanced Cert in Agriculture |
|
Area Superintendent |
Level 5 Advanced Cert in Agriculture |
|
Engineer Grade I |
A level 8 qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications in Civil Engineering or equivalent professional qualification in Civil Engineering. |
|
Engineer Grade II (Civil) |
Hold a minimum Level 8 qualification on the National Framework of Qualification in Civil Engineering, Engineers Ireland accredited. OR Hold a qualification which would be acceptable to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine as being at least equivalent for the purpose of this competition |
|
Engineer Grade III (Civil) |
Hold a minimum Level 8 qualification on the National Framework of Qualification in Civil Engineering, Engineers Ireland accredited. OR Hold a qualification which would be acceptable to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine as being at least equivalent for the purpose of this competition. |
|
ALAB Technical appeals Advisor |
Hold a primary degree qualification at level 8 Marine Biological sciences Biological sciences Engineering sciences Planning Engineering Or such other equivalent qualifications |
|
Civil Engineering Technician Grade I |
Hold a Level 6 qualification in Civil Engineering on the National Framework of Qualifications that is accredited by Engineers Ireland OR Hold a qualification which would be acceptable to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine as being at least equivalent for the purpose of this competition |
|
Civil Engineering Technician Grade II |
At a minimum hold a Level 6 qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications in Civil Engineering, Engineers Ireland accredited OR Hold a qualification which would be acceptable to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine as being at least equivalent to the above for the purpose of this competition |
|
Craft Worker (Carpentry) |
A recognized qualification as a carpenter at a minimum of NFQ Level 6 or equivalent. Note: If apprenticeship served in this, evidence of exams completed successfully will be necessary and copies should be submitted with your application. |
|
Harbour Master |
(i) Hold a Certificate of Competency as Master or Chief Mate STCW, as amended, Reg. II/2, for vessels in the unlimited trading area, without limitations on type of ships, valid for service or eligible to be validated for service, in the Irish Merchant Marine. and have at least one year’s satisfactory sea service as Master or Chief Mate or a combination of both. OR (ii) Be serving, or have served, in the Permanent Defence Force of the State and hold, or have held, the commissioned naval rank of Lieutenant Commander or Lieutenant, And have at least one year’s satisfactory sea service in command of a naval ship(s), OR (iii) Hold a Skipper’s Full Certificate of Competency and, subsequent to receipt of that Certificate, have at least one year’s service as skipper of an Irish sea-fishing vessel of 24 metres or over in length. |
|
Inspectorate Grades |
Degree required |
|
Assistant Agricultural Inspector (various streams) |
Entry level grade. Hold a primary degree qualification at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). |
|
Agricultural Inspector (various streams) |
Promotional grade. Hold a primary degree qualification at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). |
|
Veterinary Grades |
Degree required |
|
Chief Veterinary Officer |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Senior Superintendent Veterinary Inspector |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Superintendent Veterinary Inspector |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Veterinary Inspector |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Senior Research Officer - Veterinary |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Research Officer - Veterinary |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Epidemiologist - Veterinary |
Post-graduate MSc or PhD qualification in epidemiology, or another closely related area such as public health or animal health |
|
Laboratory Grades |
Degree required |
|
Head of Agriculture Laboratories |
An honours primary degree i.e. level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications in Agricultural Science, Chemistry, or a relevant Bioscience related to the work of the post. |
|
Chief Analyst |
Minimum Level 7 Degree on NQF in applied science discipline |
|
Deputy Chief Analyst |
Minimum Level 7 Degree on NQF in applied science discipline |
|
Head of Bacteriology |
Degree in Veterinary Medicine recognised by Veterinary Council of Ireland |
|
Head of Food Chemistry |
Minimum Level 8 Degree on NQF in applied science discipline |
|
Head of Plant Science |
Minimum Level 8 Degree on NQF in basic or applied science discipline |
|
Senior Laboratory Analyst |
Minimum Level 7 Degree on NQF in appropriate science discipline |
|
Laboratory Analyst - Biology |
Minimum Level 7 Degree on NQF in bio related science discipline |
|
Laboratory Analyst – Chemistry |
Minimum Level 7 Degree on NQF in chemistry related science discipline |
|
Quality Manager |
A degree, i.e. level 7 on the National Framework of Qualifications in a relevant scientific discipline. |
|
Biosecurity Officer |
Minimum Level 7 Degree on NQF in appropriate science discipline |
|
Social Scientist |
Hold a qualification in an area of Social Science at a minimum of level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications |
|
IMT Grades |
Degree required |
|
Earth Observation Specialist |
A. A qualification at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) major award, or higher, in Earth Observation, Remote Sensing Technologies, GIS or a related field. OR B) A qualification at Level 8 on the NFQ or higher, with an additional higher qualification (Masters or PhD) in Earth Observation, Remote Sensing, GIS or a related field. |
|
A. A qualification at Level 7 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) major award (i.e. ordinary degree), or higher, in a relevant computing or computational discipline OR B) A qualification at Level 8 on the NFQ major award (i.e. honours degree), or higher, with computing/ computational modules taken in the final |
286. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the average number of days training per grade, in his Department in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022; how this compares internationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14849/23]
View answerThe information is not readily available and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.End of Take
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51.
Appendix 1 sets out the average number of formal training days completed by staff in my Department during the period 2019 to 2022. The information contained in Appendix 1 reflects the training facilitated by the learning and development function in my Department. My Department uses the OneLearning Learning Management System (LMS) for the purposes of recording such training. The LMS is configured to record training for all staff under the Civil Service general service grade structure, i.e. from Services Officer to Principal Officer. Training completed by technical and professional grades in my Department is consequently recorded against the general service grade equivalent for the role.
The Senior Public Service (SPS) comprises all serving Civil Servants at Secretary General, Deputy Secretary, Assistant Secretary and Director level. Development initiatives are provided to SPS members in my Department by the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform. The initiatives are informed through internationally and European based research and benchmarking with the OECD and other research and learning institutions.
My Department prioritises the development of employees’ skills as essential for organisational success. Learning solutions are sourced and procured to align with strategic business objectives and are evaluated accordingly. My Department has a range of Learning and Development interventions, methods and processes which are available to support staff in reaching their maximum potential, in recognition of the critical role they play in achieving organisational goals and objectives.
Appendix 1
|
2019 |
Total Incidences of Training |
Total Number of Days in training |
Average Training Days |
|
Administrative Officer |
1705 |
1931 |
1.1 |
|
Assistant Principal |
2183 |
2470 |
1.1 |
|
Clerical Officer |
1279 |
1251 |
1.0 |
|
Executive Officer |
1991 |
2208 |
1.1 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
587 |
607.5 |
1.0 |
|
Principal Officer |
660 |
704.6 |
1.1 |
|
Services Officer |
19 |
20.6 |
1.1 |
|
Totals |
8566 |
9317.8 |
1.1 |
|
2020 |
Total Incidences of Training |
Total Number of Days in training |
Average Training Days |
|
Administrative Officer |
647 |
372.5 |
0.6 |
|
Assistant Principal |
950 |
445.4 |
0.5 |
|
Clerical Officer |
420 |
226 |
0.5 |
|
Executive Officer |
512 |
331.9 |
0.6 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
254 |
156.9 |
0.6 |
|
Principal Officer |
261 |
134.2 |
0.5 |
|
Services Officer |
19 |
12.8 |
0.7 |
|
Totals |
3174 |
1758.7 |
0.6 |
|
2021 |
Total Incidences of Training |
Total Number of Days in training |
Average Training Days |
|
Administrative Officer |
1063 |
831.5 |
0.8 |
|
Assistant Principal |
2827 |
1894.3 |
0.7 |
|
Clerical Officer |
325 |
291.75 |
0.9 |
|
Executive Officer |
787 |
581.1 |
0.7 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
381 |
320.25 |
0.8 |
|
Principal Officer |
754 |
553 |
0.7 |
|
Services Officer |
26 |
19 |
0.7 |
|
Total |
6252 |
4544.9 |
0.7 |
|
2022 |
Total Incidences of Training |
Total Number of Days in training |
Average Training Days |
|
Administrative Officer |
1091 |
1133.5 |
1.0 |
|
Assistant Principal |
1427 |
1341 |
0.9 |
|
Clerical Officer |
428 |
431.25 |
1.0 |
|
Executive Officer |
1062 |
1050 |
1.0 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
413 |
412.7 |
1.0 |
|
Principal Officer |
501 |
483 |
1.0 |
|
Services Officer |
14 |
8 |
0.6 |
|
Total |
5040 |
4991.5 |
1.0 |
