Mr. Brendan Ryan:

The management of the Courts Service is accountable to the Courts Service board under the 1998 Act and, through that, to the Committee of Public Accounts. The Comptroller and Auditor General also has oversight of the courts. We also report to the Minister for Justice and Equality on critical matters. We would have no problem with an overview of the criminal justice agencies because the Courts Service would prove to be a very efficient and effective organisation. There is significant oversight in place throughout the organisation. We have an audit committee chaired by an outside prominent individual who takes very keen interest in everything we do. There is significant oversight. The Comptroller and Auditor General has access to us all of the time. We would have no fear of anybody else coming in and having oversight. As I keep saying, I think it is a very successful organisation. I am not saying that is because of me. The Chairman mentioned earlier how successful the Courts Service has been. That is because of the staff of the Courts Service and their commitment, enthusiasm and professionalism. I sit on the top floor of Phoenix House making decisions every now and then but they do all the work.