Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 April 2021
122. Deputy Joe Flaherty asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the assessment he is making or he has made as to whether capacity across public service bodies is keeping pace with increased investment levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20401/21]
View answerThe Government is committed to public capital investment as both a stabiliser and stimulus in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Investment is set to increase significantly over the coming years as part of the National Development Plan, and so it is opportune to assess whether capacity across public service bodies is keeping pace with these increased investment levels.
My Department recently published the Supporting Excellence: Capital Project and Programme Delivery Review report, conducted by EY on behalf on my Department, which was the culmination of an assessment of government departments and agencies and their capacity, as well as international good practice. It highlights that there are many examples of best practice throughout the public service but there are also some areas where enhancements are required.
The Report is a key interim output of the Review of the National Development Plan and one that my Department has and will keep to the forefront throughout the NDP Review to ensure that the capacity of public service bodies aligns with the investment levels proposed. The review commenced in October 2020 and considers five fundamental elements: what the appropriate level of public investment should be over the next ten years; what the share of the budget should be across Departments; ensuring alignment with the policy priorities of the Programme for Government; ensuring regional development through alignment of investment with the National Planning Framework; and finally, assessing whether the structures and rules for the management, governance and oversight of projects can be improved in order to deliver on the ambitions of the new NDP.
A key output arising from Supporting Excellence is the setting up of an Action Team to implement the recommendations of the Report. The Action Team will set out a roadmap for progress in this crucial area, which is planned for publication alongside the revised National Development Plan this summer and looks to align investment with capacity. It is important to note that one size does not fit all and my Department is looking at a range of measures tailored to the needs of each department or agency. More centralised guidance and support shall also be developed to help ensure that departments and agencies avail of their organisational potential. It is anticipated that the work of the Action Team will be completed by Summer 2021.
