246. Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the difference between the higher scale and the standard scale in the public service; and the way an employee is assigned to either scale. [5620/15]

Higher payscales were developed under the Programme for Competitiveness and Work 1994 to 1996 which allowed civil service Departments / Offices to expend 1% of their payroll costs for purposes of achieving greater organisational productivity.  The 1% may be applied either by way of an enhanced payscale on the existing standard one or the payment of an allowance to individual officers. Departments / Offices have flexibility in the application of this arrangement having regard to certain  criteria being met on the part of the individual officers concerned and which may include: contribution to the Department or Office, experience and suitability.

Civil Service payscales can be accessed via my Department's website at www.circulars.gov.ie.