The Hon. MICHAEL GALLACHER: I direct my question to the Attorney General. Is he aware that the most recent advertisements for Crown Prosecutor vacancies have changed from the long-established practice of the Director of Public Prosecutions Office having carriage of recruitment to his department having carriage of the process? Why has this change been made? Where will the make-up of the selection committee come from and has this change been made solely to facilitate the appointment of people known to the Attorney or to the Government?

The Hon. JOHN HATZISTERGOS: Crown Prosecutors are appointed by the Governor on the recommendation of the Attorney General, therefore I do not apologise for taking responsibility for appointment issues.

The Hon. Michael Gallacher: This is in the same way as the Public Defenders Office?

The Hon. JOHN HATZISTERGOS: That is exactly right.

The Hon. Michael Gallacher: You stacked it.

The Hon. JOHN HATZISTERGOS: No, there have been no decisions in relation to that, but there has been an independent panel for Public Defenders. There will be another independent panel comprised of appropriate representatives who will be able to advise me. I believe these panels will be enhanced with community representation on them and I intend to ensure that occurs in relation to this panel.