Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 5 to 8, inclusive, together.

Ireland’s well-being framework was launched in July 2021. It consists of 11 dimensions made up of different aspects of well-being, with a dashboard on the CSO website of 35 indicators. The development of the framework is a major new initiative of the Government and is modelled on best practice from the OECD.

We know that no single measure can accurately capture how we are doing as a country but by bringing together economic, social and environmental statistics in an integrated way, this framework helps us to assess where we are and helps us to make better choices and decisions in future. Analysis of the framework is published annually since 2022, and the 2023 analysis was published in June this year. It shows that Ireland is doing well when it comes to most things when we compare ourselves with the past and with other countries. We should never lose sight of the fact that Ireland is one of the best countries in the world in which to live, grow old, raise a family, pursue a career or run a business. It also shows that there is plenty of room for improvement too.

The Government has also committed to featuring the well-being framework at relevant points in the budgetary cycle. For budgets 2023 and 2024, the well-being framework was a theme at the national economic dialogue, was part of the summer economic statement, and associated analysis was also published on budget day.

We are committed to making use of the well-being framework across the Government as we look to improve the quality of life of our citizens. The Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform has published a number of working papers that seek to embed a well-being perspective into public policy and budgetary processes. Other Departments are also progressing work to embed the approach into policy development and decision-making. For example, the work of the new child poverty and well-being unit will make a difference, especially for children and their families.

The pace of the development and integration of the well-being framework reflects well in comparison with other countries. The Government will continue to review, identify and develop data and methods for further use and integration of the well-being framework. As part of this, a seminar on Ireland’s well-being framework will be held next week, which will be an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss the Irish framework, its evolution and future development and its uses in policymaking.

We are also engaging internationally to learn from other approaches to measuring well-being. Yesterday, the OECD launched the Knowledge Exchange Platform on Well-being: Metrics and Policy Practice, which will create a space for peer learning across countries and to share good practice between governments on these issues. Ireland is contributing to the project and will benefit from its outcomes.

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