Mr. Eamonn Molloy:

While I do not suggest that is not a point people can make, it suggests Departments are not accountable for what they do. I assure members that Departments are accountable. When Departments have a job to do, it behoves them to make the appointments they believe are right, based on particular expertise. There is no point in telling them white is black. Anyone who does so should not be in a position of adviser. This is not the case and if the Deputy has any doubt about it, I assure him that we are ultimately accountable.