Question
154. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the location it is intended to employ up to 40 additional staff in an organisation (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35127/16]
Answer
Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Frances Fitzgerald): An increase of €2.8 million for the Data Protection Commissioner's office was announced by the Government in Budget 2017. This will bring the total funding allocation next year to over €7.5 million. I am advised by the Data Protection Commissioner, who is independent in the performance of her functions including the administration of her office, that the planning for the recruitment of additional staff is at a very early stage and while it is not possible to provide details of the total number of staff that will be recruited in 2017 or their location, allocation between Portarlington and Dublin will be made on a business needs basis.