71E. (1) The Minister may, in accordance with the regulations, where applicable, appoint a person (in this Part referred to as an "assessor") who, in the opinion of the Minister, possesses the appropriate level of skill, knowledge and qualifications to perform the functions of an assessor under this Part, to be an assessor.

(2) Subject to this Part, an assessor shall be independent in the performance of his or her functions.

(3) An assessor may engage one or more persons to assist him or her in the performance of his or her functions.

(4) An assessor and any persons engaged by him or her under subsection (3) shall be paid such fees and expenses as the Minister may, with the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, determine. ]