Since I have taken office I have appointed 2 special advisers as follows:
Mr. John Walshe — Salary €92,672 per annum.
Mr. Walshe has extensive experience of the education sector and he will assist me in formulating future educational policy.
Ms. Deirdre Grant
Ms. Grant has been appointed as Director of Communications. She formerly worked in media relations. She will assist me in promoting educational policy, monitoring the media coverage of educational issues and utilising media to inform the general public of developments in education and broader skills area. She will be responsible for Department press and media relations. Ms. Grant's salary has yet to be finalised. When this matter has been concluded I will inform the Deputy accordingly.