asked the Minister for Local Government why a Grade 2 Architect employed by Dún Laoghaire Corporation was appointed to Dublin Corporation as a Grade 1 Architect, in view of the shortage of architectural staff in Dún Laoghaire Corporation; and whether he is prepared in view of such shortage to agree to the retention of the Grade 2 Architect as a Grade 1 Architect in Dún Laoghaire Corporation.

Appointments to professional posts in the local authority service are made by local authorities on the recommendation of the Local Appointments Commissioners in accordance with the relevant statutory provisions and I have no function in these appointments. I am aware that the Commissioners recently recommended a permanent architect grade II employed by Dún Laoghaire Corporation for appointment to a permanent post of architect grade I under Dublin Corporation. The question of his taking up duty there is a matter between the candidate and Dublin Corporation. The appointment of a person to fill the architect grade II vacancy is a matter entirely for the Dún Laoghaire Corporation, subject to the same statutory provisions which apply to the architect grade I appointment being made by Dublin Corporation. The retention by Dún Laoghaire Corporation of the architect grade II in question as an architect grade I could not be sanctioned. I understand that the Local Appointments Commissioners recently recommended a person for appointment to a vacant office of architect grade I under Dún Laoghaire Corporation.

Is the Minister aware that there will be only one architect employed by Dún Laoghaire Corporation from the beginning of January until the end of March?

What is the purpose of this information?

Is the Minister satisfied with that position? One architect is not able to carry out all the work.

That may well be, but whether or not I am satisfied with the position does not really bring about any easement of the situation. The appointment of these people is not my function.

Is the Minister not aware that the reason for the shortage is the unsatisfactory salary? No architect will take a job in Dún Laoghaire unless he gets a better salary.

Why should Dún Laoghaire suffer more than anywhere else? There is nothing unpleasant about Dún Laoghaire.

Question No. 91 postponed.