25 July 2006

DAVID HANSON REASSSURES CSA STAFF IN BELFAST

Social Development Minister David Hanson MP today reassured CSA staff in Belfast that there is no immediate threat to their jobs.

While the Child Support Agency is to be replaced following the Henshaw Report published yesterday, current operations are likely to continue for at least three years. The Minister said: "The unofficial action today does not help anyone, especially those who depend on the CSA services.

"I can understand the concern that yesterday's announcement will have caused to staff in the Agency. I hope they will reflect that they are very much needed to keep the operation going until new arrangements are put into place.

"Future staffing issues will be dealt with in full consultation with the union. I would hope that any reduction could be dealt with through natural wastage and redeployment within the Department for Social Development and across the Northern Ireland Civil Service.

"I would appeal to staff to bear with us through a period of change. They still have a valuable role to play in providing child support service."

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