The purpose of this Circular is to issue revised Guidelines for the Engagement and Use of Consultants and the revised Consultancy Agreement and guide notes.

The Guidelines contain minor amendments to the Guidelines issued previously in 2000. The Crown Solicitor's Office has amended and updated the Consultancy Agreement which may assist agencies in preparing their own Agreements. The updated document takes into consideration changes in the law dealing with privacy, disclosure of personal information and moral rights. It is strongly recommended that any agency intending to use this Agreement should seek legal counsel in formalising and finalising the final Agreement.

Agencies are reminded that they should assess carefully the need to engage a consultant. Consultancies should be engaged only where the required professional expertise is not available internally or where an agency is able to demonstrate that engaging a consultant will result in savings in terms of value for money compared to carrying out the work internally.

C. Gellatly
Director General