The total numbers of staff (posts)employed in the Deputy First Minister’s private office since 1999 are set out inthe following table: Year Staff 1999/2000 3 2000-01 4 2001-02 4 2002-03 4 2003-04 5 2004-05 5 The increase in the number ofposts reflects the need to engage more effectively with the policy detail and administrativerequirements of an increased legislative and parliamentary programme following devolution.