7. While it acknowledges that there has been some progress in addressing the problem of vacancies, the Committee remains extremely concerned at the vacancy rates in both the Department and the NPA. The vacancies in the ranks of magistrates, judges and prosecutors are a severe problem. It is also particularly worrying that so many of the NPA's top management are appointed in an acting capacity, or fill two positions. Given the seriousness of the problem, and its potential to undermine the ability to deliver justice services, the Committee does not accept the explanation given for the ongoing difficulties experienced in filling vacancies. The Committee intends, however, to pursue this matter with both the Department and the