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During his speech at the International Research Society for Public Management Conference Dinner tonight, Minister Howlin spoke of the need for effective Public Service Reform, describing it as "recognised as being essential to the future of this country".

Speaking in relation to the Programme for Government, the Minister said...

The new Programme for Government contains the most ambitious and far-reaching agenda for reform in the history of this State. We know that the Irish Public Service is full of committed and hard-working individuals, in all sectors and at all levels. But we also know that many parts of the Irish Public Service, as they currently operate, are not fit-for-purpose. We need a leaner, more efficient, better integrated and responsive Public Service, one that can meet the needs of citizens and industry over the coming years.

The Government intends to radically overhaul scrutiny of public spending in Ireland and, as part of that, to undertake a Comprehensive Spending Review of all public expenditure.

As I am sure you will agree, it is essential that public spending is measured against its effectiveness in achieving intended outcomes. It is not simply a case of being more efficient in continuing to do what we have always done. Rather, there is a need to assess what we are doing in the first place, and to re-design services and structures to meet the challenges of a new world.

Minister Howlin then spoke about the need of integration and leadership in the Public Service...

We want a more integrated Public Service. Customers don’t care which organisation delivers a particular service, as long as it is delivered efficiently. Meeting customer expectations will involve greater use of modern technology, and information-sharing as a facilitator of joined-up government. Also, public servants must be driven by an ethos of customer service, rather than being concerned with job demarcation and organisational divisions.

Leadership will be essential in this regard. We need leaders, not just at the highest levels in central government, but in every part of the Public Service. We need people who will drive change, in terms of processes and structures, but also in building a culture of professionalism and customer service.

Minister Howlin continued by speaking on cultural change, accountability and the wider economy.

The Minister concluded by saying...

Overall, I want to leave you with the message that our recovery and renewal is already underway – we know what we have to do and we are committed to doing it.