Vol. 555 No. 4
77 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he has satisfied himself that the awards in the benchmarking report 2002 are soundly based on objective analysis of private sector comparators and of difficulties in recruitment in particular skill groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18686/02]
The Public Service Benchmarking Body was established as an independent body in July 2000 under the terms of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness (PPF). It was to examine public service pay and jobs, by comparison with the private sector, and make recommendations thereon. The membership and terms of reference of the body was agreed between the public service employers and the public service unions. The body was asked to have regard to a number of factors in its terms of reference, including recruitment and retention and private sector pay rates. Specifically, it was asked to arrange in-depth and comprehensive research, examination and analysis of pay levels across the private sector. To complete its task, it surveyed widely in both the public and private sector. It collected extensive data on jobs in the public service grades being examined and on jobs in the private sector. It held oral hearings and received written submissions. Based on its consideration of all the factors involved, it issued its report. I am satisfied, given the high quality of the membership of the body and the way it approached its work that the body completed its task in accordance with its term of reference and the findings are soundly based.
