Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 157: To ask the Taoiseach the measures agreed for his Department under the value for money review 2006-08; the projects which had the necessary changes made; when they are planned for completion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25870/08]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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As part of the implementation of the Government's Value for Money Review and Policy Review Initiative, my Department is undertaking a review of the National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO) and its constituent bodies — the National Economic and Social Council (NESC), the National Economic and Social Forum (NESF) and the National Centre for Partnership and Performance (NCPP).

In line with the objectives of the Value for Money and Policy Review Initiative, the Review will analyse in a systematic manner what is being achieved by Exchequer spending and will provide a basis on which more informed decisions can be made on priorities. More specifically, the Review aims:

to analyse the outputs of the grant-in-aid funding provided to NESDO;

to determine the impact on the development of public policy in line with the objectives of the Department of the Taoiseach and other relevant public organisations for NESDO; and

to inform future funding, administration, structural and policy decisions in relation to NESDO.

A Steering Group to oversee the Value for Money and Policy Review was established in January 2007. Terms of Reference have been drawn up and agreed by the Steering Group. A comprehensive Review Plan was subsequently developed and approved outlining methodology, work schedule and resource requirements.

In January 2008, work began on the Review with preparations for a comprehensive survey of stakeholders and in March 2008, a survey of stakeholders and employees was carried out. The results of this survey are currently being analysed and a number of follow up interviews will be held within the next few weeks.

It is envisaged that a draft review report will be prepared by the end of July 2008. This report will then be reviewed by an External Reviewer and a final report prepared by the end of September 2008.