Limerick East): I propose to take Questions Nos. 57 and 79 together.
As is the case with semi-State bodies generally, day-to-day matters relating to the recruitment and employment of staff by the Food Safety Authority will be an executive function of that body and not a matter in which I, as Minister, have a direct function. I can assure Deputies, however, that the legislation being drafted by my Department provides that the Authority will have a complement of staff — technical, professional and administrative — reflecting the range of disciplines relevant to the areas in which the Authority has competence. The Authority will also have the capacity to engage consultants and-or contract out work, if appropriate.
As regards its progress on recruitment, I understand that the interim board, which I appointed in November pending enactment of the legislation, has recruited two staff on a temporary contract basis; a part-time acting chief executive and a secretary. The post of full time chief executive of the Authority has been advertised by the interim board in the news media and interviews for the position have taken place. The Authority will undertake recruitment to other positions at a later date.
As regards funding for the Authority, I indicated during my speech to the House during the budget debate that provision of £1.5 million is being made for the board to enable it to carry out its work programme for 1997.
The Government is fully committed to the processing of the legislation in this area and it is currently at an advanced stage in my Department.