Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 April 2022
189. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which he proposes to continue to use reform as a means of controlling costs in this jurisdiction for the foreseeable future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21587/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI thank the Deputy for his question.
A range of budgetary reforms have been put in place in recent years, to drive spending efficiency and effectiveness. It is a key responsibility of every Department and Minister to manage expenditure within their respective allocations and careful monitoring of spending against profile and of progress on programmes and projects is required. Public organisations are required to treat public funds with care, and to ensure that the best possible value for money is obtained whenever public money is being spent or invested. This is in accordance with the Public Spending Code. Moreover, Action 5 of Our Public Service 2020 emphasises the need to ensure value-for-money principles are adhered to across the Public Service.
As part of this broader approach to ensuring value for money, the introduction of shared services and centralised procurement in earlier phases of reform continue to be embedded in the delivery of services to clients and customers. My Department continues to actively explore new areas and mechanisms to further embed reforms and efficiencies that will enhance the cost-effectiveness of public services; for example, through greater use of opportunities presented through digitisation, intelligent automation, innovation and the implementation of new ways of working and service design.
