To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what changes in the level of staffing occurred in the Department of Finance and Personnel in 1994–95; and what factors led to these changes. [35000]

During 1994–95, the level of staffing in the Department of Finance and Personnel reduced by 72 of which 21 were casual appointments. The principal factor leading to this reduction was the need to ensure that the Department provided its services in the most efficient and effective manner consistent with its running cost provision.