Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 June 2018
143. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if personnel in his Department have been removed from their position, have been transferred to another role or had their employment terminated in the past four years due to breaches of departmental standards or professional misconduct or incompetence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27956/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn reply to the Deputy’s question, I wish to inform him that no personnel in my Department have been removed from their position, transferred to another role or had their employment terminated in the past four years on the grounds listed.
In its commitment to providing efficient and well managed services, my Department and the wider Civil Service require personnel to adhere to the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour issued by the Standards in Public Office Commission. Similarly, all civil servants shall comply with all policies relating to terms and conditions of employment.
The Performance Management and Development System (PMDS) in the Civil Service encourages the continuous improvement of business processes and of individuals’ skills, behaviour and contributions. Performance Management focuses on the role and effectiveness of line managers in setting goals and reviewing and strengthening the performance of their staff. Cases of underperformance are also highlighted as part of the PMDS process. The Civil Service Management of Underperformance Policy (Circular 24/2016) provides a clear framework to help managers to identify and deal with issues of underperformance effectively in the Civil Service.
Matters relating to breaches of departmental standards or professional misconduct or incompetence may be addressed via the Civil Service Disciplinary Code. The Code sets out arrangements for dealing with disciplinary matters in the Civil Service where concerns arise about the conduct, work performance, and/or attendance of a civil servant. The Code applies to all civil servants other than new entrants serving in a probationary capacity.
