I propose to take Questions Nos. 23 and 43 together.
The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commissioners were appointed by the President on the 10th February 2006, following nomination by the Government and recommendations by both Houses of the Oireachtas.
The Garda Ombudsman Commission is planning to commence operations in May 2007. In order to meet this deadline, the Commission is now engaged in completing an extensive programme of work. This programme includes, among other things, the recruitment and training of staff, the refurbishment of a new premises and the delivery of an I.T. infrastructure.
The Commission has appointed 25 staff at this stage. Initial staff training will commence on 5th March 2007. At that stage the Commission will have appointed 37 staff and are in the process of recruiting the remaining members of its staffing complement.