I wish to advise that the moratorium on recruitment for positions at and above public service Grade 12 (A&C), or equivalent, excluding SES positions, has been lifted from the date of this Memorandum.

The requirement to obtain approval has been lifted as the arrangements detailed in PEO Circular 1996-27 ensure that displaced executive and Grade 12 officers are considered for suitable positions.-

As previously advised in PEO Circular No 1995-18, any recruitment action to fill these positions should meet the test of essentiality and be consistent with the direction of any Premier's Department reviews.

The moratorium continues to apply to SES positions. All public service agencies, statutory bodies outside the public service and State Owned Corporations must obtain approval from their Minister and the Commissioner, Public Employment

Office to advertise and fill SES positions.

R. Wilkins
Acting Commissioner