Framework may ease staffing problems at agricultural colleges

RECRUITMENT problems in Teagasc may be eased by employment control frameworks to be put in place across the public service.

The aim will be to achieve targeted reductions in staff numbers, but it is envisaged that a framework for Teagasc, which is being finalised with the Government, will provide for limited recruitment on an exceptional basis.

This could ease staffing problems in the agricultural colleges – particularly in the privately owned colleges at Gurteen, Pallaskenry and Mountbellew, where Teagasc subvents the salaries of 45 teachers.