The implementation group was set up in April 2001, comprising representatives of relevant Departments. The group reported in 2002. A specific commitment given in the Agreed Programme for Government in June 2002 had the practical effect of re-confirming the Government decision of 20 March 2001 to establish the PIAB. On 27 November 2002 I appointed the members of the interim board of the PIAB under the chairmanship of Dorothea Dowling and tasked them with setting up the board on a statutory basis. The board has contributed enormously towards shaping the proposed operating procedures reflected in this legislation and also in progressing the logistical operations required to set up the new body.