258. Deputy Robert O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Transport the number of EU Presidency policy and administrative officers now employed on temporary contracts across his Department, in Ireland and abroad; if these individuals can apply to internal civil service competitions for these temporary contracts; the plans being developed to retain these individuals once their contracts cease, given they will have extensive and intimate knowledge of EU and Irish institutional operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54603/26]

Deputy,

There are currently 2 officers employed on temporary contracts across the Department of Transport to assist in presidency functions. Both officers are based in Brussels supporting department officers.

Their contracts will cease in January 2027. They are not eligible for internal Department of Transport competitions. There are no retention plans in place.