Mr. Noel Waters:

As I said earlier, it may have happened in the Department of Justice many years ago for a short period. I cannot speak for other Departments, but my sense is that it would not be regular. In the case of lower level posts at assistant secretary level, it would be normal and people would be in acting roles pending the holding of a competition. That would be normal.

I am keen to respond to one point from Deputy Ross. I have no sense at all that I am part of any political game-playing. I want to be clear on that. I have the full support of the Minister in discharging the role. I want to make that absolutely clear.