Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 109: To ask the Taoiseach the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25712/09]

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 undertook 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).

This Review examines the rationale, efficiency, effectiveness, impact and continued relevance of NESDO and its constituent bodies. The NESDO specific element of the review particularly examines the economies of scale derived from the shared administration costs of NESC, NESF, and the NCPP under the umbrella of NESDO, as well as the synergies that have evolved in terms of shared and complementary research initiatives. This review was undertaken in accordance with the framework set down by the Department of Finance by a member of staff of the Economic and Social Policy Division and included a comprehensive survey of stakeholders and employees.

The review was overseen by a Steering Group, chaired by a Principal Officer of my Department and included representatives of the Department of Finance, NESDO and relevant units of my Department.

The outcome of this review will help to identify further efficiencies as may be achieved by NESDO and its constituent bodies. This review has been signed off by the NESDO Value For Money Steering Group and has been accepted by the Secretary General of my Department. It will be laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas and forwarded to the Select Committee on Finance and the Public Service. The recommendations in regard to the scope for greater operational efficiencies are being implemented by my Department and the Board of NESDO, while other issues in respect of the effectiveness of the work of NESDO are being considered in consultation with the social partners.