Mr. Martin O'Sullivan:

The director is the Accounting Officer for the Arts Council. The council is the decision maker in terms of the ultimate funding decision that is being made. Of course, as the Chairman will be aware, under the Act, the council is independent in that role. The process is clear. It is awarded on a merit basis in terms of the various assessment processes that the director read out earlier.

The recommendation is sent to the council for its final consideration. I think the processes are very strong at present.