I propose to take Questions Nos. 481 to 484, inclusive, together.
In accordance with the arrangements then applying generally to the filling of senior professional posts in the Department, applications were invited on 10 July 2003 from grade 1 archaeologists in the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government for promotion to the post of chief archaeologist. The job specification for the post which was circulated at that time is set out below. This emphasised strong leadership and management qualities with regard to the team of some 40 professional archaeologists employed by my Department.
Applicants were required to provide details of their experience and achievements and to be rated in respect of these by their superior officers. Three applications were received and these, along with ratings by superiors, were reviewed by the assistant secretary, heritage and planning division and the assistant secretary, corporate services division. A recommendation was made to the management advisory committee of the Department and this was endorsed. Appointment as chief archaeologist was made by the Minister with effect from 22 July 2003.
The appointed chief archaeologist is a qualified archaeologist who has served in the national monuments service of the Office of Public Works; the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands; and the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government since 1976. He has dealt with a wide range of archaeological issues, including the archaeological survey of Ireland, conservation programmes at national monuments and all aspects of development-related archaeology. He enjoys the full confidence of his team and superiors, as well as my support. The chief archaeologist job specification is set out below.
The chief archaeologist will lead the professional archaeological service of the Department. Combining strong leadership qualities, management skills and sound judgement, the chief archaeologist will be responsible for the motivation and management of a staff of approximately 40; the management of resources to efficiently deliver specific services such as the archaeological survey of Ireland, a built heritage archive and a monitoring programme for protected monuments; the provision of expert professional advice on archaeology as required; the management of systems and processes to ensure that advice on impacts on archaeology are in accordance with the principle of sustainable development and Government policies; the implementation of a programme of change to further improve the quality of the professional archaeological service; the development of teamworking between archaeologists and other disciplines and sections in the Department; and such other work as may be assigned from time to time.
