Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 14 Feb 2002

Vol. 548 No. 4

Written Answers. - Strategic Management Initiative.

John Bruton

Question:

175 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the updated achievement of each target set for his Department under the strategic management initiative; if the targets in question are sufficiently measurable, quantifiable and focused on outcomes rather than activities to be an effective tool of real accountability; and if not, if he proposes to refine the targets. [5179/02]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey)

In my Department's statement of strategy for 2001 to 2004, key performance indicators are identified for each of the Department's areas of responsibility, including the strategic management initiative. These indicators are designed to assist in measuring the achievement of the Department's objectives and, as such, these indicators are an effective means of assessing the Department's performance. Progress in the key areas of the strategic management initiative is set out below and a full report on progress in implementing all aspects of the statement of strategy is set out annually in the Department's annual report. A copy of the latest annual report, which is for 2000, is available in the Oireachtas Library.

In 2001, the Department published its statement of strategy for 2001 to 2004 to meet the statutory requirements of the Public Service Management Act, 1997. A copy of the statement of strategy is available in the Oireachtas Library.

Business plans, which translate the goals and objectives of the statement of strategy into more detailed work programmes, are developed annually throughout my Department.

The customer service action plan for 2001-04, which outlines the Department's approach to ensuring continuous quality improvement in customer service, was published during 2001. A copy of the plan is available in the Oireachtas Library. It includes a range of objectives to be achieved over the period and the performance measurement and reporting mechanisms. The plan also outlines the Department's approach to the Government's regulatory reform initiative and arrangements for the operation of the Freedom of Information Act, 1997.

The extension of the Freedom of Information Act to agencies under the Department's aegis is continuing. The National Roads Authority, the Housing Finance Agency, the Dublin Transportation Office and the Rent Tribunal will be subject to the Freedom of Information Act from 1 November 2002. While the implementation of the Act in these agencies is a matter for themselves, my Department is providing assistance and advice to them and will continue to provide support as required.

The development of a customised human resource management strategy for the Department, which is being steered by the partnership committee, is due for completion shortly. The roll-out of the performance management and development system, PMDS, in the Department, which is an integral element of the human resource management strategy, is continuing. The phased implementation of the PMDS training programme is due to be completed in November 2002. About 40% of the Department's staff have already been fully trained.

The Department has commenced work on modernising its financial and management information systems consistent with the principles which underpin the management information framework. It is hoped to select a new financial management system later this year. The Department has put forward proposals for the evaluation of its principal spending programmes in keeping with its obligation under the second round of the expenditure review initiative and the economic and social infrastructure operational programme.

The Department has developed a strategy for the delivery of services to its customers over electronic media. The strategy includes both a set of strategic objectives and a clear three year implementation plan. Progress has already been made with an on-line driving test application and payment facility – www.drivingtest.ie – operational since last July. Plans are in place for the development of on-line services for motor tax renewal service and driving licence applications.