As set out in the response to PQ 529 of 7 November 2017, Ms Sarah Kavanagh and Mr Tom Fabozzi are employed as special advisers in my Department. In terms of previous employment, most recently, Ms Kavanagh and Mr Fabozzi held positions as my special advisers in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; Ms. Kavanagh was my special adviser in the Department of Children and Youth Affairs. Both are remunerated on the Principal Officer standard pay scale (PPC) in line with guidelines on the appointment of Ministerial advisers.
Ms Kavanagh serves as a political and policy advisor and Mr Fabozzi serves as a communications advisor.
Reflecting the scale, diversity and range of responsibilities of my Department, it is my intention to appoint an additional Special Advisor in the near future.