Lucinda Creighton (Dublin South East, Fine Gael)
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Question 7: To ask the Taoiseach the implementation of the OECD report on Reform of the Public Sector; the recommendations that are being adopted and those which are not; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34484/08]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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In May 2008, I appointed a Task Force to develop an Action Plan for the Public Service which takes into account the analysis and conclusions of the OECD Report — 'Towards an Integrated Public Service'.

The terms of reference of the Task Force included the preparation of a comprehensive framework for renewal of the Public Service, and to recommend, in particular, how best to secure;

an overarching policy for an Integrated Public Service, that enables increased flexibility, mobility and staff development; and supports the competencies and practices necessary for new networked ways of working within and across the broader Public Service; and

the basis for determining the contribution which a Senior Public Service could make to an integrated and cohesive Public Service.

In addition, the Task Force was asked to develop an implementation plan, specifying the tasks and responsibilities necessary for the successful implementation of the renewal agenda, including the ways in which the principle of partnership with public servants and their representatives will be applied.

The Task Force has met on several occasions to date and I look forward to receiving its report shortly. Its work has been extensive, and has included engaging with a number of key stakeholders concerned with the shape of the successful implementation of the renewal agenda.