Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 November 2017
114. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when funding will be provided to the National Botanic Gardens in order to increase its staffing levels in its scientific and horticultural teams which are at an acutely low level in terms of sustaining the gardens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47253/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Botanic Gardens has housed the National Herbarium since 1970. In 2006 the staffing level of the Herbarium was raised from four employees to six. Unfortunately the moratorium on recruitment and promotion in the Civil Service has meant that of the 4 vacancies that occured during this period none could filled as they arose.
I can now advise the Seputy the post of Taxonomist, who will act as the Keeper of the Herbarium, has recently been advertised and an appointment will be made as soon as possible. It is hoped to augment the staff compliment with further appointments over time.
Within the Horticultural staff we now have a complete team of 23 horticulturists.
