Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 January 2026
3. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the application process for higher scales for administrative grades below the grade of assistant principal operated in her Department (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2651/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe process for the application of higher scales for administrative grades below Assistant Principal Officer in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade operates in the following way.
As per Circular 24/1995, 25% of Executive Officers, 30% of Higher Executive Officers and 30% of Administrative Officers are on the higher scale for their respective grades.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade conducts a quarterly review of the percentage of officers serving at the higher scale. In cases where the number of officers currently serving at the higher scale for their respective grade is below the agreed percentages, officers are appointed to the higher scale using the following criteria:
The seniority of the officer at their current grade;
The performance record of the officer based on their annual Performance Management and Development (PMDS) review with their line manager;
The attendance record of the officer as per the criteria outlined in Circular 13/2023.
