Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 October 2015
91. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform to indicate whether he remains satisfied as to the extent to which public expenditure and reform will continue to remain a fundamental part of the economic framework in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33896/15]
View answerThe management of public expenditure and the formulation of overall public expenditure policy in recent years have played a crucial role in the economic recovery now underway. Public expenditure policy has helped stabilise the public finances on a sustainable basis, protect and support key public services, support employment, invest in vital infrastructure (as evidenced by the recent Capital Plan) and provide a stable framework for future economic progress. The role of expenditure policy has in turn been complemented by my Department's role in pushing the reform agenda throughout Government and the public service. This is intended to secure greater value for money in public services and public procurement, improve the quality of services to the citizen, engender greater public confidence in the institutions of the State and support the overall national recovery.
Noteworthy outputs under the reform heading include the liberalisation of the FOI framework, greater transparency in public institutions, the renewal of and greater accountability in the Civil Service, the regulation of lobbying and greater visibility of public data. I am confident that the continued management of public expenditure on a sustainable basis and the continued drive for reform throughout Government and the public service will be key foundations of the framework for future economic development.
