My Department engages consultants to provide expertise across a range of its activities. Broadly, expertise is sought under three main headings: support with a number of strategic multi-annual programmes aimed at enhancing the delivery of the Department's services, for example, the service delivery modernisation programme; technical consultancies relating to the ongoing development of information technology systems; and consultancy assistance in other areas, including policy development, advertising and information.
My Department, in engaging consultants, adheres to the Department of Finance and EU guidelines, which are published on the Department of Finance website. All projects which require consultancy support are approved and monitored on a monthly basis by a projects governance committee comprised of senior managers in my Department.
Operational guidelines for the management of consultancy projects include standard templates for requests for tender and for consultancy contracts. These templates have been validated by the Office of the Attorney General. Operational guidelines are reviewed on a regular basis to ensure best practice in the procurement and management of consultancy services. In accordance with best practice in procurement and in line with the recommendations of the Quigley report, ministerial approval is not sought for the expenditure on consultancy expertise.