I propose to take Questions Nos. 356 and 365 together.
My Department is in the process of recruiting ten driver-testers through an open recruitment competition organised by the Public Appointments Service. A total of 4,276 applications were received and 4,224 attended stage one of the competition held on 16 December 2005. Results issued to candidates on 30 January 2006.
Stage two, which is an advanced driving test, will be held on 8, 9 and 10 February 2006. The third stage, an interview, will take place in March. Successful candidates will commence a six-week training course in May. Subject to passing this course, they are expected to commence testing in June 2006.