55 'nixer' cases found in local authority inquiry

Over 43 cautions up to and including suspension have been handed out and some staff have resigned or taken career breaks following an investigation into double-jobbing by local authority employees across the country.

Environment Minister Noel Dempsey confirmed there were 55 incidences where individuals or councils were caught following the extensive inquiry.

Most of the offences related to the handling of planning applications for family and friends.

The largest number of offences took place in Kerry, where 23 of the 43 sanctions were issued.

Investigations are continuing in Leitrim and Cork County Councils and in Galway Corporation.

Minister Dempsey promised that a new set of guidelines would be drawn up to clarify the regulations for local authority staff.