Yes. There is a feedback process during annual appraisal. The comments are passed on to the deputy and that is also the occasion for the deputy minister to discuss his or her future projects with the Clerk.
Most of these people are in their fifties. The number of years they wish to continue working before taking retirement is thus a consideration. They indicate whether they wish to continue working in their department or if they would like to move onto other things at some point. They also indicate what fields interest them. This discussion takes place every year with each deputy minister.