Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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624. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government the level of foresight or future planning that operates within his Department; who is responsible for long-term planning; the input these individuals or teams have into Departmental policy and practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61665/25]

James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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The Statement of Strategy sets out my Department’s mission and high-level strategic goals over a three year period, serving as a framework for action. The goals, objectives and outcomes are informed by my Department’s commitments under the Programme for Government and other overarching strategies and policies such as the Climate Action Plan, Project Ireland 2040, and the Public Sector Equality and Human Rights Duty. The Strategy is prepared following both internal and external consultation, including with other government Departments, aegis bodies, local authorities and the public. The current Statement of Strategy is available on gov.ie at this link: . A new Statement of Strategy is currently being prepared. Other significant strategies include the National Parks and Wildlife Strategic Plan 2023-2025, the Met Éireann Strategic Plan 2024-2034, and the National Housing Plan.

My Department’s Corporate Governance Framework is available on gov.ie. at this link: It sets out the guiding principles, policies, and procedures that govern my Department. It also sets out the delegation of responsibilities at senior management level, as described in my Department’s Framework of Assignments, a requirement of the Corporate Governance Standard for the Civil Service.

The Management Board is the central mechanism for policy adoption, promotion and communication. They support my Department’s direction by collaboratively reviewing strategic decisions, overseeing adherence to corporate governance requirements, and promoting the development and improved performance of the Department’s organisation. The Management Board meets with myself and the Ministers of State on a regular basis to review progress in terms of strategic plans, as well as to engage on policy matters.

Effective governance practices as described by the Corporate Governance Framework ensures that my Department’s values and mission are upheld, whilst also supporting excellence in performance and decision-making as guided by the Statement of Strategy.