It's ultimately the minister who recommends the appointment. So, with respect to the point at which the minister's office should be involved in the process, it seems logical to me that that should take into account the fact that it is the minister who ultimately recommends the appointment. That he should be involved only at the end or a little earlier in the process is consistent with the way in which all of government operates.
On April 3rd, 2008. See this statement in context.