Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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298. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his priorities for the remainder of his term in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32781/14]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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In answer to the Deputy's question my priorities for the remainder of my term in office are consistent with the priorities outlined in the Statement of Government Priorities 2014-2016 published by Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Tánaiste Joan Burton on Friday 11 July last. 

In the area of responsible and sustainable management of the public finances in addition to working towards maintaining the current stable economic environment my Department will complete a comprehensive review of expenditure ahead of this year's Budget in order to prioritise expenditure allocations for the coming years.

A capital review will also be carried out in advance of the budget to ensure that the available resources focus on the key social and economic priorities of the Government.

To aid and assist the rebuilding of trust in politics and public institutions my Department has already introduced significant political reforms.  To further this my Department will complete the enactment of the Freedom of Information legislation.  Additionally my Department intends to enact the Lobbyists Bill by year end and to publish legislation to consolidate local and national ethics requirements and give effect to the recommendations of the tribunals.

My Department will also assist the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government in the analysis and development of financial options in the area of social housing. 

The process of civil service reform and renewal will also be a priority for me in the coming months.  The ongoing process of public service reform also remains a priority for me and my Department.

My Department and I will continue to work towards protecting and enhancing peace in Northern Ireland and will continue to develop the North-South institutions.

In addition to the above I intend to continue to progress the relevant commitments under the Programme for Government for which my Department is responsible.