asked the Minister for the Public Service if he still intends to implement the proposals contained in the White Paper Serving the Country Better; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The Government decisions announced in the White Paper on the Public Service —Serving the Country Better— are being implemented by the Department of the Public Service and other Departments as appropriate. The Government are committed to full implementation and as part of that commitment require regular reports on progress to be submitted to them. The next such report will cover the six months period to end-1986.

The drafting of the legislation is now at an advanced stage and is being pressed ahead as quickly as possible.

Are the sections of the White Paper which indicated changes in conditions and terms of employment of civil servants being implemented? What progress has been made? Are negotiations in train with the appropriate trade unions?

The Deputy's questions cover a wide area. Of course discussions are taking place with staff associations and they are proceeding on the basis that positive policy decisions have been made by the Government. The implementation of detailed arrangements is a matter for discussion with staff interests, which is the proper procedure. In regard to changes in terms of employment, is the Deputy referring to the proposal in relation to dismissal arrangements?

Yes.

That will be included in legislation which has been drafted but not yet circulated. The Deputy will see progress in that regard in the very near future.

In view of the change of Ministers in the public service with, possibly, opposing political views, has the new Minister for the Public Service altered in any way his views with regard to the change of conditions and terms of employment of civil servants? Does he intend to proceed with that and include it in the legislation he has mentioned?

I can confirm that the legislation will reflect the policies as outlined in the White Paper.