Mr. Maurice Buckley:

I support what Ms O'Neill stated. It is obviously a challenge and like every other public body we face a tough challenge. The NSAI has had a 31% staff reduction after having had a very stable level throughout the previous decade. It is a very difficult situation. Through the good offices of the people involved who have taken on extra responsibilities, and working very closely with the private sector where we can jointly deliver services, we have kept all of our services going and have even added services. As Ms O'Neill stated, there are very important standards and certification related services in the country, such as Excellence Through People, a scheme which nearly died a death but is of immense value to the country. The NSAI has been able to pick it up in recent years, although with a very threadbare support structure until we can work our way through this difficult period and, I hope, strengthen the organisation somewhat were necessary.