Mr. Eamonn Molloy:

We are dealing with the implementation of what is involved under the contract. The issue is whether we are delivering what we are supposed to deliver under the contract. PA brings very good actuarial skills to the table and I am very happy to stand over the appointment which was made through open procurement by the individual members see sitting before them. If there is an issue, there is an issue, but it was a good appointment which was not compromised in any way and was of people with very good skills who were qualified to do the job. As ever, advisers do not run projects. Departments should run projects, make calls and stand over them. However, given that this is a significant national project, when there are people with particular technical skills, we are obliged to obtain good advice in order that when we deal with Ministers and other Members, we can say we are doing our best to do what the Department is supposed to be doing.