There is no fixed policy on government schemes to seek resignations to help cut staff numbers.

Policy and Reform Minister Chris Thomas also revealed that there has not been anything paid out in the public sector, under a mutually agreed resignation scheme (MARS), since July last year.

MARS schemes are normally used when an organisation wants to reduce staff numbers without resorting to compulsory redundancies. They normally involve an offer of severance pay in exchange for a resignation.

Replying to a House of Keys question from Julie Edge (Onchan), Mr Thomas said: ’There is no specific policy for MARS in the public sector.

’However, a number of schemes have been operational, across different terms and conditions, since 2012, which are based on the same broad principles.

’None of the schemes are being actively promoted at the present time, but individuals can still apply on a case-by-case basis.’

He said that information online about government MARS schemes concerned common principles and described ’certain schemes’ but did not constitute a policy.

Mr Thomas added: ’Of course, the main purpose of the scheme is to facilitate a reduction in staff numbers overall by creating vacant posts which can be filled by redeployment of staff from other jobs, or as a suitable alternative to those facing redundancy, providing a cost saving can be achieved.

’I am confident that the public service is moving closer to an optimal level of positions.’