Mr. John Moran:

A specific view means that one must look at each individual situation. However, were I to express a view - I will deal with this on a personal basis because it is easier - I could imagine a scenario in which, as seems to be suggested, I should have two years during which I would not actually work in anything of conflict. I imagine some questions might be raised here, were we to follow the practice that applies in the private sector in such cases of someone paying me for so-called gardening leave to sit at home for two years. As this might actually raise some additional questions, there is a delicate balance that must be taken. We have very strict rules in respect of confidentiality and the use of information that people have. Mr. Michael Torpey already had been out of the Department for a number of weeks in any event because he was on holidays and as Ms Ann Nolan mentioned, as soon as we were aware of it, that is, as Mr. Torpey announced that he was leaving, we asked him to desist from engaging in any files that would cause any conflict.