Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The position of chief of staff is a new position. It is one that is has not been in the job classification system of the government over the years because it did not exist until the beginning of this government.

In terms of the benefits, including salary and so on, then it does fit pretty much in the same category as do deputy ministers. Whether or not it is actually built into the system yet, I am not certain. I would have to check on that and get back to the Member on whether or not it is there already.

Certainly at some point though the intention would be that this position would fit in the category similar to deputy ministers. Thank you