Dear Bruce I understand that Olaf has now joined Maria as policy support for Council. Welcome to Olaf and my apologies for missing the call last Friday where I understand Olaf was introduced. Given that we now have two staff available to support Council policy, I think it would be good for Council to work with them and Paul Verhoef to develop and set their policy work. Towards that goal, I suggest that Maria and Olaf provide to Council an outline of the policy work that they understand Council is engaged in and likely to take up over the next 3-6 months and their involvement in that work. My thinking would also be that such an outline would include "options". This would allow me to consider their perspective of our work (not all of which I, as a single councillor, are over) and provide some feedback. Where I would like this effort to head to is a clear understanding by Council of who is supporting what and to provide guidance, direction and priority to the staff in that support. My thinking would be that such a consultation and priority setting be undertaken on a regular basis - every 6 months? I would be interested in other councillor's views on this approach. Regards Grant Forsyth Manager Industry & Regulatory Affairs TelstraClear Cnr Taharoto & Northcote Roads Private Bag 92143 AUCKLAND ph +64 9 912 5759 fx + 64 9 912 4077 Mb 029 912 5759