Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 January 2013
74. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the number of promotions at each rank that were approved in the Revenue Commissioners for 2011 and 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3206/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Revenue Commissioners have provided me with the information in the following table in response to the Deputy’s question.
Table: Revenue Commissioners - Internal Promotions
|
Grade Level |
2011 |
2012 |
|
Principal |
2 |
13 |
|
Assistant Principal |
1 |
33 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
25 |
33 |
|
Executive Officer |
25 |
32 |
|
Staff Officer |
13 |
16 |
|
Clerical Officer |
0 |
1 |
The limited number of promotions in the Revenue Commissioners must be considered in the context of the significant reduction in numbers and loss of key skills since 2009. Revenue staff numbers have reduced from 6,581 in 2009 to 5,732 in 2012. I am advised by the Office of the Revenue Commissioners that they undertake regular workforce planning analyses to identify key posts and skills that require to be filled to enable them to deliver on their current and developing strategies. Notwithstanding the need to reduce public service numbers generally, an effective tax collection system is an essential element of our fiscal consolidation requirements. In recognition of the need to adequately resource Revenue and to address critical skills gaps, my colleague the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform recently granted Revenue sanction to fill critical vacancies up to a new Employment Control Framework of 5,874. The Revenue Commissioners are required, in the first instance, to refer to the public service resource panel to fill vacancies. Where there are no redeployment staff available, or there are specific skills deficits, Revenue have sanction to fill posts by recruitment or promotion.
