Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will outline the opportunities that persons in lower grades of the Public Service have been afforded ion contributing to the reforms of the public service as sought in the Public Service Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50646/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Staff at Clerical Officer and Executive Officer level in my Department and offices under its aegis are often at the front line of service delivery. These staff are encouraged by their managers in Divisional team meetings to give their views on how work is organised, both in their own area and at a broader level. Where appropriate, this has included business process improvement initiatives and training aimed at simplifying processes and improving service delivery. In addition, these staff are involved in business planning and reform initiatives, led by their Head of Division.

In relation to public service reform generally, my Department's Reform and Development Unit ensures that staff are kept up to date in relation to reform issues by publication of a newsletter and by making available, often online, progress reports and other reform documentation. Staff are encouraged to give their views or ideas on any reform opportunities to the line manager or to this Unit.

In addition, my Department is considering a number of options for a staff suggestion scheme as the views of all staff are considered to be critical to the progressing of reforms.