The Government's programme, A Government of Renewal, provides that “over the period of this programme it is intended that the growth of current supply services spending will be constrained to a maximum of 6 per cent, in nominal terms in 1995, and to an average annual rate of 2 per cent in real terms over the following two years of the programme.”
Therefore, in answer to the Deputy's question, this Government has already placed a cap on public spending on the basis outlined in its programme. The Government is committed to a policy of maintaining firm control over the public finances and adherence to the strict limits on the growth of public expenditure which it has set for itself is the cornerstone of that policy.
Capping spending will not, in itself, lead to an improvement in the quality of public services. That requires the better use of resources. Recognising this, the Government's programme also states that the Government is committed to reform of public expenditure that would lead to greater efficiencies, better quality of services, value for money, and improved morale in the public service. To give effect to this commitment, a programme of public service reform has been initiated and is being implemented across the public service.
In tandem with this programme of reform, a strategic management initiative is being implemented in all Government Departments with the aim of improving the contribution which the public service can make to national development, especially through improved competitiveness, to provide a high standard of service to the public and to make the best use of resources. Therefore, I can assure the Deputy that the issue of the quality of public services is being fully addressed through the public service reform programme and the strategic management initiative.