Decentralisation Programme.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 October 2004

Thursday, 14 October 2004

Ceisteanna (38)

Liz McManus

Ceist:

35 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Finance if, in view of the recent figures published by the central applications facility in respect of State agencies showing that few staff and, in some cases, no staff had indicated a wish to transfer to the new locations proposed, he will review the plan for State agencies; his views on the potential loss of skills and expertise for specialist State agencies should they be decentralised with so few people willing to transfer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24656/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

The latest figures from CAF show there is very substantial interest in the programme within the public service. The figures for the Civil Service are much better than those for the State agencies. The former has considerable experience of decentralisation and has a long tradition of interdepartmental transfers. I see no reason, in principle, that State agencies should always remain in Dublin. There are issues that arise in dealing with the State agencies and it was always going to be the case. The correct approach is to tease out the issues and develop good long-term solutions in consultation with all of the parties involved. The Flynn group has adopted this approach.