Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Independent)
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92. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans to reduce costs in Government Departments for management consultants fees, accountant fees and legal advice fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6389/15]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) has been established to centralise the procurement of common goods and services across the public sector.  This move is in line with best practice in the public and private sector and is part of the continuing reform programme being driven by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. The reform of the public service procurement functions will deliver sustainable savings for the tax payer. 

The OGP is increasingly taking responsibility for the procurement of Professional Services. Professional Services encompasses four primary categories namely

- Legal & Insurance

- Consulting & Advisory

- Banking & Finance

- Construction & Engineering

In terms of reducing costs associated with management consultants fees, accountant fees and legal advice fees, the OGP intends putting in place National Frameworks for the following during 2015:

1. Financial & Economic Consultancy Services (Accountancy, Audit, Tax, Economic Appraisal etc)

2. Solicitors Legal Services (Local Government)

3. Solicitors Legal Services (ETB's)

4. Advisory & Consulting Services Tranche 1 (Business Strategy, Operations Management, Policy, Research & Development)

5. Solicitors Legal Services for Whole of Government

6. Advisory & Consulting Services Tranche 2 (Human Resources, Project & Change Management, Risk)

Where appropriate, these frameworks will be underpinned by the following;

- Improved operational efficiencies and reduced costs;

- Discipline, continuity and consistency to the provision of professional services;

- Establishment of a supply base with broad service coverage and improved service quality;

A framework structure which has the potential to impact positively on the Irish economy and society.

These frameworks will provide an opportunity for public service bodies to leverage the full buying power of the State in delivering value for money, reduce risk through standardised terms and conditions, and reduce their own administration costs. My Department has issued guidance to public bodies through Circular 16/13 reminding them of the value for money to achieved for the taxpayer through centralised contracts and frameworks and that their use is government policy.