• To implement the current budget in 1998 and 1999 in accordance with the financial regulations and report to management regularly thereon; • to recruit suitable staff for the needs of the Agency promptly through selection procedures; • to ensure that salaries are paid correctly on time each month, refund mission expenses promptly and administer personnel entitlements in line with the Staff Rules and Regulations; • to provide information and assistance to new staff and organise and co-ordinate training programmes for all staff; • to provide a suitable office environment to support and facilitate the work of the Agency, e.g. switchboard service, reception of visitors, office equipment, furniture, and supplies, restaurant, security, health and safety; • to deal with individual staff needs or problems, liaise with other units and the Staff Committee; • to prepare the 1999 budget and follow up and act on the approval process for the European Community contribution; and • to implement rules adapted for performance evaluation of staff and support the first promotion round in 1998.