Vol. 566 No. 3
428 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if all money due to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will be awarded immediately; the reason for the delay in dealing with the person's application for retirement; and if the process will be expedited. [12638/03]
The employee in question applied to retire on the grounds of ill health in late October 2002. My Department promptly referred this application to the chief medical officer for the Civil Service. There was then some delay in providing further medical clarification, which my Department had sought from the employee, on behalf of the chief medical officer. This clarification has now been provided and the case should now be now determined quickly.
429 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the number of applicants who applied for the position of full-time cleaner at Jerpoint Abbey, Thomastown, County Kilkenny; if there is only one person on the panel; if so, if the position will be offered to this person in view of the fact that this person is presently carrying out some duties on the site; and if he will make a statement on the interview process and the intentions of his Department in relation to the appointment. [12639/03]
There were applications from three persons for the position of part-time cleaner at Jerpoint Abbey, one of whom subsequently withdrew. Following completion of the normal competitive interview process, the first candidate was informed that he would be offered the appointment, but that the commencement of employment would have to be deferred on account of delays occasioned by building works on site. The works have recently been completed and a formal offer of appointment will be extended shortly. My Department has already advised the second candidate that he has been placed on a reserve panel.
430 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if the money due to the caretaker of Jerpoint Abbey, Thomastown, County Kilkenny, since December 2002 will be awarded immediately; if the new contract and wage terms will be settled for this person without delay; if an allowance for light equipment operator will be awarded to this person; and if the matter will be resolved immediately. [12640/03]
The person referred to is currently engaged by my Department in the capacity of caretaker. A revised list of caretaker duties was discussed and accepted by the person in writing on 24 April 2003. Revised remuneration has now been agreed and will be paid shortly. There are no proposals to award the person the light equipment operator allowance.
Questions Nos. 431 to 437, inclusive, withdrawn.
Question No. 438 answered with Question No. 421.
