Public service embargo being slowly lifted in mayo

THE Department of the Environment has approved 48 staff sanction requests from Mayo County Council since January 1 last, it has been revealed.

Decisions are pending in respect of a further 13 staff sanctions requests, according to Minister Alan Kelly. The department got a total of 85 staff sanction requests from the council.

Six of the newly approved jobs are of a permanent nature, indicating the government's public service recruitment embargo is being gradually lifted.

The positions include retained fire station officer, retained fire fighter (4) and retained sub-station fire officer.

A further 20 positions have been approved in respect of Irish Water posts in Mayo.