Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 70: To ask the Taoiseach the timetable involved in the filling of the recent vacancy for State solicitor for County Louth; the identity of the successful person or company and the salary given; if the position was advertised; the number of interviews that took place and the person who conducted such interviews; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46681/10]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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The vacancy for State Solicitor for County Louth has been filled following a competition run by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Mr. Fergus Mullen, Solicitor, was appointed by the DPP on 1 December 2010.

The position was advertised in mid June. 19 applications were received by the closing date of 9 July and all 19 applicants were called to interview. They were interviewed by a three-person board set up by the DPP comprising two senior lawyers from the DPP's Office and one lawyer from outside the Office. Mr. Mullen was ranked first by the interview board.

The total package of remuneration for the Louth State Solicitor position is €229,282 per annum. The State Solicitor must provide for all accommodation costs, the salary of support staff and office expenses from this sum.