Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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Question 253: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his Department has carried out an efficiency savings analysis with a view to cutting out unnecessary costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30232/07]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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A key commitment by my Department, as outlined in its business plans, is that the business of the organisation be carried out having regard to principles of economy, efficiency and effectiveness. To this end, the Management Services Unit (MSU) within my Department is providing specialist development for staff to analyse business processes; seek ways to streamline and improve those processes; determine resource requirements; and measure and report on likely savings.

The Unit employs a two-stage approach to this work. In the first instance, a process improvement exercise is undertaken within a specific business area. This involves the use of a number of process improvement techniques in a consultative approach with both staff and management in the business area. All suggestions which are expected to lead to improved processes and efficiency savings are documented and an implementation plan is agreed with management. Once the improvements have been implemented, an internationally recognised work measurement methodology, Administrative Productivity Training (APT), is then used to measure the improved processes within that business area. The APT system facilitates my Department in determining realistic and consistent resourcing requirements.

This year alone, the Unit has undertaken a study of resource requirements in each of the 59 Local Offices across the country, as well as engaging in extensive projects in both the Carers and Family Income Supplement (FIS) areas in its Longford office and more recently, in the Child Benefit Office in Letterkenny. The Unit has also played a significant role in the successful decentralisation of a number of business areas under Phase 1 of the Decentralisation Programme.

My Department has also made good progress under the Government's Value for Money and Policy Review (VFMPR) Initiative. Currently reviews in my Department's Information Services and Disability Allowance are in progress and are expected to be completed in 2008.