Civil Service

Tuesday, 5 November 2024

Questions (154)

Carol Nolan

Question:

154. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that the provisions of the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform Circular 4/2013 are being properly implemented by his Department; if he is satisfied that civil servants whose career breaks are coming to an end are being notified of appropriate vacancies; if he is concerned by instances where civil servants are having their career breaks extended unnecessarily where the Department has appropriate vacancies to fill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44371/24]

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Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence

I confirm that the provisions of Circular 4/2013 are strictly complied with in all cases where civil servants avail of a career break in my Department. As per the Circular, the onus is on each individual to notify the Department of their intention to return to work at least two months in advance of the end of their career break. My Department facilitates a return to work as soon as a vacancy at the appropriate grade becomes available. There are no instances in my Department where career breaks have been extended unnecessarily where my Department has appropriate vacancies to fill.