Mattie McGrath
Question:71. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the implementation of the Government's reform agenda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1832/16]
View answerTuesday, 19 January 2016
Questions (71)
Written answers
Public Service Reform is a key element of the Government's overall strategy for recovery. Led by my Department, the reforms delivered over the past five years have enabled us to maintain and improve public services in the face of the necessary reduction in staff numbers and budgets, while meeting increased demand for many services. Importantly, the efficiencies gained have also allowed us to re-invest in frontline service delivery.
Following strong progress on the implementation of the Government's first Public Service Reform Plan (2011), our second Reform Plan was published in January 2014 and sets out the priorities for reform from 2014 to 2016. While maintaining an emphasis on efficiency, this Plan puts a particular focus on improved service delivery and achieving better outcomes for service users.
We are implementing a broad range of reforms, with over 230 specific actions set out in the Plan. This includes, for example, some 400 digital services and improved engagement with service users; implementation of shared services and alternative models of service delivery; more efficient public procurement and property management; and increased accountability and transparency.
Good progress is being made on the implementation of the plan, as outlined in the Annual Progress Report I published in March last year. A copy of the report was sent to all Members of the Oireachtas and it is also available at www.reformplan.per.gov.ie. It is intended to publish the second Annual Progress Report on Public Service Reform in the coming months.
The Deputy will also be aware that the Taoiseach and I published the Civil Service Renewal Plan in October 2014 which is a three year plan to lead and implement major changes across the Civil Service. A progress report on achievements in the 'first 200 days' was published in July and is also available on my Department's website. Since then, work has continued on the remaining actions in the Plan and a further Progress Report detailing the progress made during the second phase of implementation will be published in early summer.
Overall, I am satisfied that we have made very strong progress on Public Service Reform to date. The level of reform that we have delivered could not have happened without the efforts and commitment of our public servants and I commend them for their contribution to date.