My Department keeps staffing matters under constant review in order to ensure all priority vacancies are filled in a timely manner and that resource allocations are balanced across the Department to meet key priorities as necessary. However, as the Deputy will be aware my Department must operate within its ceiling under the Employment Control Framework and accordingly not all vacancies which arise can be filled. The position referred to by the Deputy is one such vacancy.
Local Management has examined the general case/claim load distribution position in the Cavan Area to see how the workload can be best carried out using existing resources. This review is now completed and a decision has been taken in relation to this. Over the coming weeks an additional resource will be provided to the Social Welfare Inspectorate.
Staff in my Department in Cavan continues to ensure that the level of service being delivered to customers in County Cavan is maintained to a high standard.
I trust that this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.