Staff retention and public-sector recruitment limits
Bruton challenged the retention of staff amid public-sector hiring restrictions, and the Minister said he understood the restrictions and the difficulties they caused where staff were needed elsewhere. The exchange included brief interjections and calls for order.
Is the Minister aware that there is an embargo on new posts and that the Government have agreed, as did the previous Government, that only one vacancy in three shall be filled? Given that he has unnecessarily abandoned this scheme, how can the retention of these staff members be squared with his Government's statements in regard to controlling numbers in the public sector?
Comment on this
(Clare): I am aware of the effect of restrictions on the recruitment of staff. I meet it every day and it was not initiated by this Government.
Comment on this
(Clare): I am well aware that it is causing serious trouble where staff are needed in other areas.
