John Browne
Question:19 Mr. Browne (Carlow-Kilkenny) asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the number of personnel who applied for the position of livestock valuer as advertised in September 2000; when and by whom the criteria was decided on; the number who have now been appointed; the numbers who have taken up their posts; the reason many top quality part-time farmers were not called for interview while cattle traders and others involved as factory agents were shortlisted; and if he will make a statement on the success of the new scheme. [9120/01]