I propose to take Questions Nos. 121 to 124, inclusive, together.
I understand that during the ten-year period referred to by the Deputy, 75% of the increase in management grades within FÁS occurred as a result of a one step increase from a senior staff grade to assistant manager as part of a major restructuring within the organisation.
FÁS management grades currently account for 12.8% of total staff and the cost must be seen in the context of the very wide responsibilities of the organisation. These responsibilities include:
Oversight of over 1300 community schemes involving over 24,000 people;
The operation of 70 Employment Services Offices assisting in excess of 150,000 unemployed people;
Providing over 120,000 training opportunities to unemployed people;
Providing training and other services to 22,000 apprentices;
Supporting a wide range of other services to disadvantaged people in our society.
By the end of 2009 management grades in FÁS will have reduced by over 10% overall and by 20% in the senior management grade from its peak.
The pay increases referred to by the Deputy were in line with national agreements and pay movements generally.