Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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87. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the plans there are to reduce the number of quangos and strip out the amassed red tape and bureaucracy that exists, in order to allow the delivery of projects under her Department’s remit in a more timely, efficient and customer-friendly manner; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [68379/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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My Department is committed to delivering on the high level goals set out in our Statement of Strategy and to promoting and protecting the interests of the citizen and all those we serve. Strong and effective governance is critical to our ability to do this and the DFAT Corporate Governance framework sets out the approach to this governance, and related structures.

In general, high priority projects within DFAT are advanced within a strong project management framework, with project managers reporting to Management Board members monthly on timelines, risks and budget. Management Board members act as project sponsors who are accountable for their projects and a dedicated DFAT Programme Management Office offers guidance and assistance. In this way, any decisions required for individual projects are taken in an informed and timely manner.

This has been the framework which has guided the expansion of the DFAT global network, involving the delivery of 27 new diplomatic missions since 2018 under the Global Ireland 2025 programme. In this way, DFAT is working effectively to deliver projects which enhance our ability to protect and advance Ireland's interests and values.

My Department also invests considerably in modernising, improving and protecting the Irish passport, along with the environment and systems that underpin service delivery for citizens. Passport Online has been transformational in terms of delivering citizen-centric customer service improvements, as well as operational efficiencies. All passport systems are designed to provide a seamless journey for the citizen, for example linking directly with the General Registry Office so birth certificates can be accessed for passport applications without delay. The success of projects in the Passport Service are not measured by technical delivery alone, but by outcomes that matter to people, including ease of use and fewer delays.

In terms of broader governance, my Department ensures that any large project that meets the requirements of the Public Spending Code or Infrastructure Guidelines is advanced in line with the procedures set out by DPENDR.

There are no bodies under the aegis of my Department.