AQW 6196/22-27

Mr Jim Allister KC
Traditional Unionist Voice
North Antrim

Tabled Date: 12/02/2024
Answered On Date: 06/03/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) how many border staff are employed by his Department; and (ii) how many posts his Department still intends to fill.

Answer:

My Department does not employ border staff but is required by law to ensure a sufficient number of suitably qualified and experienced staff are available to perform official controls and other official activities efficiently and effectively at SPS Inspection Facilities.

Currently my Department employs 151.5 staff, across a range of disciplines and expertise, in support of delivering official controls and activities at SPS Inspection Facilities, and intends to fill 28 vacancies deemed necessary to ensure it continues to meet its statutory obligations in this regard.