MINUTES OF THE EIGHTEENTH MEETING OF
THE ASSEMBLY COMMISSION
HELD ON MONDAY 15 JANUARY 2001 AT 6.30PM
IN ROOM 106

1. Introduction to the new Head of Security
2. Accomodation Issues
3. Clerk to the Assembly Competition

Present: The Speaker
Rev Robert Coulter
Dr Dara O'Hagan
Mr Jim Wells
Mrs E Bell
Mr John Fee

In the Chair: The Speaker

In Attendance: Mr T Evans, Mrs C McGowan,
Mr A Rogers was in attendance for Agenda item 3
Mr G Cosgrave, Mr P Waddell and Ms G Campbell were in attendance for Agenda items 1 & 2.
Mr G Colan-O'Leary was in attendance for Agenda item 1.

1. Introduction to new Head of Security

The Speaker welcomed Mr Colan-O'Leary, the new Head of Security. Following a brief discussion, Mr Colan-O'Leary informed the Commission that he will be visiting Westminster next week to examine their security practices and to establish contact with relevant personnel. This trip will be followed by similar visits to Scotland and Dublin.

The Speaker encouraged Members to meet separately with Mr Colan-O'Leary to discuss issues pertinent to his role within the Assembly.

2. ACCOMMODATION ISSUES

2.1 Economic Appraisal

The Speaker informed the Commission that he had met with the Minister of Finance and Personnel to discuss accommodation options within the Economic Appraisal and end-year financial flexibility. The Speaker reported that the Minister has agreed to explore the availability of a suitable site within the Stormont Estate and also to come back with advice in regard to end year flexibility.

2.2 Stormont House

The Speaker reported on his meeting with Mr Loughran who has agreed to explore the potential availability of Stormont House.

2.3 Bank Building, Gatelodge and Portacabins

The Speaker confirmed that he had visited the Provincial Bank Building, the Gatelodge and the three portacabins and is content with the general condition of the three premises. The bank building will need to be re-wired and decorated before it can be occupied. The gatelodge will also need to be re-decorated, however the three portacabins will be available for occupation in a matter of weeks. Mr Cosgrave agreed to examine the option of purchasing the gatelodge.

3. CLERK TO THE ASSEMBLY COMPETITION

3.1 Mr Rogers reported that he had taken legal advice which confirmed that Mr Wells is able to take part in the selection process. The Commission members requested that they receive the written legal advice in advance of the next stage of the selection process.

3.2 The Commission discussed and agreed:

. the wording of the topics for the presentation;

. the bank of supplementary questions to further explore material provided in the presentations;

. the lead questions for the remaining criteria (leadership and personal effectiveness); and

. interview timetable and housekeeping arrangements.

3.3 Members to receive a list of the agreed questions by mid-afternoon on 16 January. Mr Evans to forward all relevant documentation to Mr Sands.