Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 April 2009
117 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children the details of the decision not to renew temporary contracts for nursing staff; the way this applies to nurses currently under contract; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14566/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn order to implement savings measures on public service numbers, the Government has decided that, with effect from 27 March 2009 to end 2010, no post in the public sector, however arising, may be filled by recruitment, promotion, or payment of an allowance for the performance of duties at a higher grade. Therefore when vacancies arise, each agency must reallocate or reorganise work or staff accordingly. In the case of the Health Services, any exceptions to this principle, which will arise in very limited circumstances only, require the prior sanction of the Minister for Finance and myself. The decision also applies to temporary appointments on a fixed-term basis and to the renewal of such contracts.
The way in which the Government decision will be applied to nursing staff on temporary contracts is a matter for the Health Service Executive, and I have accordingly referred that part of the Deputy's question to the Executive for attention and direct reply.
118 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of medical personnel who applied for early retirement every month for the past 12 months; the number of applications for early retirement which are currently being processed; the number expected to apply for early retirement in the next 12 months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14575/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Health Service Executive is responsible for HR matters in relation to medical personnel and therefore is the appropriate organisation to address the Deputy's query. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issue to the Deputy.
119 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of staff with fewer than two years service on 1 March 2009 who gave notice to terminate their employment before 1 April 2009 under section 5 of the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act, 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14586/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm that no officer of my Department, with less than two years service on 1st March 2009, has given notice to terminate their employment, under Section 5 of the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act, 2009.
