Richard Bruton
Ceist:58 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food whether staff in his Department can take voluntary work in the Third World without loss of income or seniority; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Third World Voluntary Work.
My Department endeavours to facilitate any member of staff wishing to do voluntary work in the Third World by granting leave of absence where this can be done without seriously interrupting the work of the Department.
Special leave without pay is normally given to officers who travel overseas with voluntary organisations. The people concerned usually receive some form of income from these organisations. Voluntary service with international organisations is taken into account for seniority and promotion purposes where the work experience gained has enhanced the value of the officer's services on return to duty.