Public Service Reform

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 October 2011

Tuesday, 11 October 2011

Questions (185)

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

207 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a study has been carried out regarding the volume and scale of documentation now required by various Government Departments, local authorities and the health services notwithstanding the existence of advanced technology; the degree to which this has reduced the effectiveness and efficiency of respective Departments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28860/11]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Brendan Howlin)

I am not aware of any specific study in the area referred to. However, the Deputy will be aware that as part of the reform agenda significant work is ongoing, in Government Departments and the wider public service, to improve processes and make them more effective and efficient. Of particular note in this regard is the Organisational Review Program (ORP), which involves the undertaking of assessments of the capacities of individual Government Department and major Offices to meet the challenges ahead. These assessments are published on the ORP website at http://www.orp.ie/. Additionally, my Department is establishing a Business Consultancy Unit to provide independent advice and solutions to public bodies in relation to process, structure and service delivery business changes.

Question No. 208 answered with Question No. 58.

Questions Nos. 209 and 210 answered with Question No. 204.