Strategic Communications Unit

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 November 2017

Wednesday, 22 November 2017

Ceisteanna (98, 99)

Gerry Adams

Ceist:

98. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Taoiseach the number of staff employed by the strategic communications unit; and their respective responsibilities and positions. [49483/17]

Gerry Adams

Ceist:

99. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Taoiseach the number of additional staff that are scheduled to be employed by the strategic communications unit in the next six months; and their respective responsibilities and positions. [49484/17]

Freagraí scríofa

The Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 98 and 99 together.

There are seven staff working in the Strategic Communications Unit of my Department:

- One Director (equivalent to Assistant Secretary);

- Three Assistant Principal Officers;

- One Higher Executive Officer (equivalent);

- One Administrative Officer; and

- One Clerical Officer.

My Department is currently finalising the assignment of three Media and Communications Assistants (equivalent to Executive Officer) to the Strategic Communications Unit to fill existing vacancies through an open competition run by the Public Appointments Service.

In addition, my Department recently finalised a selection process to second experienced and qualified civil servants at Principal Officer, Assistant Principal Officer, Higher Executive Officer and Administrative Officer level to the Strategic Communications Unit.

The staffing of the Strategic Communications Unit, like any other section of my Department, is a matter for the Secretary General and the senior management of the Department to consider.