“Providing a world class service to the State and to the people of Ireland”
One of the great things about the Civil Service is the variety and diversity within it. I’m talking not only about the wide range of work we do, but also the different people you might encounter. Ever more, the Civil Service is opening up and staff who have had long careers within various Departments working hand in glove with those, like me, who have had experience in both the public and private sector. Neither path is the “right” one, they both have value. My experience in the private sector has given me a certain perspective. It has shown me that some of best people I have ever worked with are to be found here in the Civil Service. These same people have worked relentlessly for the Irish people, now more than ever as we work to build our national recovery.
Together we have managed these challenges and despite resource constraints have successfully brought in enormous change across the Civil Service and the wider Public Service. This commitment is beginning to bear fruit as the recent growth shows. That is not to say that we can rest on our laurels. Part of this culture of change is recognition of the reality that the status quo, however assessed, cannot continue.
The pace of change abroad requires a Civil Service that is agile, responsive and works seamlessly, using the resources it has (even if limited) to maximum effect. To thrive in this ever changing environment, the Civil Service needs a new chapter that builds on the work already done. I believe that the Civil Service Renewal Plan is the beginning of this new chapter.
It is the result of hard work and engagement across all levels of the civil service with contributions by more than 2,000 staff and stakeholders.
It is focussed on driving practical change and action in four key areas to create a more unified, professional, responsive, open and accountable Civil Service, providing a world-class service to the State and to the people of Ireland. It contains 25 actions and a commitment to complete all actions within 3 years.
In a speech I gave to the MacGill Summer School in July I highlighted the importance of Accountability within the Civil Service and putting in place strengthened systems. I believe the plan achieves this through the establishment of an Accountability Board for the Civil Service. This Board will look at cross cutting priorities and performance management of Secretaries General. The Plan also sees the establishment of a Civil Service Management Board. I look forward to membership of the board and particularly my new role as Ambassador for the Civil Service. I have never shied away from talking about the things we do that should be commended or the things we do that need to be improved. I promise to keep that focus and honesty as I take on this role.
Robert Watt


