Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 November 2011
5 Deputy Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan asked the Taoiseach whether staffing levels in the Chief State Solicitor’s office are sufficient to meet the demands of Departments in a timely manner, if he will review the staffing levels and work practices of that office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30792/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraLike Departments and offices generally, staffing levels within the Chief State Solicitor's office are subject to the employment control framework and the moratorium on recruitment and promotions. The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform has allowed some limited recruitment to cover priority areas of work such as European arrest warrants.
I am informed that, while there is no doubt that the office's legal resources are stretched, it is endeavouring to ensure its responsibilities are carried out in a professional manner. The Chief State Solicitor is currently carrying out a review of the allocation of staff resources and workloads within the legal areas of the office. The aim of this review is to ensure that the resources available continue to be deployed in the areas of most need.
