asked the Minister for Labour whether the National Manpower Service can effectively execute its functions without a director.

14.

asked the Minister for Labour if he has appointed a director of the National Manpower Service; and if not, when it is intended to do so.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 13 and 14 together.

I am finalising arrangements for the filling of the post of director of the National Manpower Service and I hope to be in a position to make an appointment at an early date.

Would the Minister consider offering a new mandate to the director of the National Manpower Service? In my view the Minister should not only appoint a director but should consider the strategic purpose of the National Manpower Service.

The fact that the post has remained vacant for approximately two years has not helped the situation. I am anxious to get the post filled as quickly as possible and simultaneously to review the operation of the National Manpower Service.

What type of arrangements does the Minister have in mind? Will the position be filled by advertisement or through the Civil Service Commission?

Details of the method of appointment are being finalised.

Will the same system be applied as applies to the planning boards?

No.

A party hack? A Labour Party hack?

The appointment will be made in the normal way. The detailed discussions have not yet been concluded with the various sectors in the Civil Service.

The public service.

Within the Civil Service.

Why has it taken so long to appoint this person in view of the fact that the National Manpower Service provide a very valuable service?

There has been a difference of opinion whether the post should be filled by somebody from the central part of the Civil Service or from among the regional directors.

And the row has gone on for two years.

Question No. 15.

Between whom has there been this difference of opinion?

I have called Question No. 15.

That is a simple question.