35 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the new procedures for senior appointments in his Department. [25481/99]

38 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the new arrangements agreed with staff representatives regarding new procedures for promotions within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25497/99]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 35 and 38 together.

Future promotions in the Department of Foreign Affairs to the grade of assistant secretary will be through a competitive process adjudicated by a Foreign Affairs appointments committee, which will include independent participation from outside the Department.

Promotions to the grade of counsellor will take place in two ways. Every third vacancy and every new post in the grade will be filled through interdepartmental competition. The remaining vacancies will be filled through an internal competition, also involving a Foreign Affairs appointments committee.

Discussions will take place with the relevant staff associations on the detailed procedures for such competitions.