I propose to take Questions Nos. 250 and 251 together.
I am informed by Waterways Ireland that it undertakes recruitment campaigns throughout the year when required. The recent job advertisement seeking to fill ten positions was part of Waterways Ireland’s ongoing recruitment to vacant positions in 2017. On that occasion, one of the positions was located in Ireland with the rest located in the North.
I have also been advised by Waterways Ireland that, in 2017 to date, there have been 59 permanent and temporary posts recruited. Of these, 12 posts were in Northern Ireland and 47 posts were in Ireland.
In 2016, there were 39 permanent and temporary posts recruited, five of which were in Northern Ireland and 34 of which were in Ireland.
Approximately 25% of Waterways Ireland’s current workforce is based in Northern Ireland, where its Headquarters and central functions are located.
There is no basis therefore to support any inference that Waterways Ireland is geographically disproportionate in filling posts.