393. Deputy George Lawlor asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of vacant WTE staff, by job title, currently within the Health and Safety Authority; the full yearly costs of filling each of those vacancies; when each of those vacancies will be filled, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45250/26]

Government investment in recent years has significantly increased the Health and Safety Authority’s sanctioned staffing complement to support its expanding remit, with recruitment progressed on a phased basis to align with funding and operational priorities.

As at 31 May 2026, the Authority has 345 sanctioned posts across both administrative and professional and technical grades.  The Authority’s workforce consists of Administration and Inspector grades. Inspector roles include Grade I (Senior Inspector), Grade II and Grade III, and cover all mandates, including occupational health and safety, chemicals, accreditation and market surveillance. Administration grades align with the civil service structure, ranging from Clerical Officer to Principal Officer.

Of the 345 sanctioned posts, 294 are currently filled, with a further five staff due to commence in the coming weeks. A concentrated and comprehensive programme of recruitment is underway, with six live competitions currently at various stages of the process. Competitions for all remaining vacancies are scheduled to be launched by year-end. In some instances, multiple competitions may be required to fill vacancies at the same grade.

The current distribution of vacancies by grade is set out below:

The cost per annum for each individual grade for which vacancies exist is set out below.

The estimated annual cost of filling these vacancies is based on the following assumptions:

Figures based on starting point of the relevant grade for all positions.

Provision included for Employer PRSI calculated at 11.4%

Recruitment and onboarding cost of €15k for positions based on batch recruitment.