Ms Josephine Feehily:

In the abstract, it looks sensible until one starts to figure out the practical implications of it. The authority would probably have been more comfortable with the section we have for the other ranks where it is our responsibility. There is something strange and unusual about having responsibility for a job and a statute which states we have to give it to someone else to do. That is it, however.

To be fair, the Public Appointments Service does a professional job. For many positions, it has engaged in executive search to support its selection. However, it does mean there must be a competition.