Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 30 Mar 1999

Vol. 502 No. 6

Written Answers. - Departmental Staff.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

154 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the situation regarding recruitment of agricultural officers; if a panel exists for this purpose; if so, the level of recruitment from the panel; and when the panel will expire. [9047/99]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

An agricultural officer, unestablished, written competition was held in December 1996.

Following interviews in January-February 1997, a panel was established in March 1997. A total of 29 new recruits have been taken on from this panel during 1997 and 1998. The active life of a panel set up by the Civil Service Commission as a result of a competition varies depending on a range of factors, but generally will not exceed two years. Any departure from this depends on the prevailing circumstances and is at the discretion of the Civil Service Commission.