I just went through the 'roles are not active in pl/sql' speech with a developer. His response was that someone at Oracle really needs to fix that. My first reaction was 'I'm sure there is a very good reason for it to be that way' but I can't really think of why it is that way. Are roles disabled in pl/sql for some reason other than that's just the way oracle implemented it? chris CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message is intended for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by email reply.