Ireland hosts Meeting of Senior Officials from 25 OECD member countries

From 21st to 23rd September 1997, Ireland is hosting an OECD Meeting of Senior Officials from Centres of Government. This Meeting brings together Senior Officials, such as Cabinet Secretaries and Secretaries General, from the centres of government of 25 OECD member countries, as well as the European Commission.

A Key theme of the meeting is the development of policy capacities for the long term.

The Taoiseach, Mr. Bertie Ahern, T.D., officially opened the Meeting on Monday 22nd September. In his opening remarks, the Taoiseach said that in Ireland:

"the social partners have access to the Government through a range of monitoring mechanisms, which deal with strategic issues and specific commitments. In addition, the social partners participate in a variety of working groups on long-term policy issues. This provision for consultation and consensual decision-making, is now an accepted basis for policy formulation throughout the public sector."

Referring to the Government's Strategic Management Initiative, the Taoiseach said that:

  • the Public Sector should have the framework within which to focus clearly on achieving the aims and objectives of the Government;

  • there should be an excellent service to all clients and customers;

  • the Public Service should be able to respond quickly and flexibly to changing circumstances;

  • the management of the Public Service and the provision of its service should be based on utilising the highest levels of knowledge and skills which are available;

as a "best practice" employer, the Government wishes to provide good conditions of employment and career development for Public Service employees.

The Meeting is being hosted by Mr. Frank Murray, Secretary General to the Government, and is taking place in Dublin Castle. During the two days, participants will be given presentations on the Irish policy-making system, and the process of public service reform currently underway in Ireland. The Tánaiste, Ms. Mary Harney T.D., will also host a dinner for the participants.

This is the first occasion that Ireland has hosted this annual meeting.

22 September 1997