Who They Are and What They Do
In addition to the council of priests there is the College of Consultors. Similar in nature to the council of priests, it was introduced into the diocesan structure to deal with matters which are more appropriately dealt with by a smaller group and to assume the functions of the council of priests when the see is vacant. In addition, it provides a ready source of advice to the bishop in matters of an urgent nature.
The bishop chooses at least six members of the college, but not more than twelve, from the membership of the council of priests. These priests constitute the college for five years. At the end of the five-year period, the college continues to exercise its functions until a new college is constituted.
Church Administration Handbook, pg 154