Dear Sir or Madam,
There has been ongoing discussion regarding the impact of advisers, the NGO sector, and the citizens’ assembly on governmental policies. However, very little attention has been given to the diminishing role of the permanent Civil Service.
An integral part of the duties of the Civil Service, when a new government assumes power, is to find unbiased ways to execute policies established in the government’s election manifesto or occasionally, advise caution. While this was traditionally achieved partially through politically appointed programme managers, the system has greatly evolved over time. Now, diverse and growing tiers of advice are being sourced from unelected entities, significantly contributing to the operation of the government.
“The Lost Peace: How the West failed to prevent a second Cold War” by Richard Sakwa provides an in-depth narration of a squandered opportunity. In 2011, amid severe economic difficulties, the Kenny government onboarded approximately 25 advisers for an annual cost of €2.5 million. However, in contrast, in our current period of economic stability, we as a nation have 68 ministerial advisers, costing a staggering €7 million; financial assistance to the NGO sector is upwards of €6 billion and the expenditure on citizens’ assemblies has exceeded €4 million so far.
Considering recent policy debates, one has to question whether the reduction in the role of the senior Civil Service has negatively impacted our government system and public policy implementation. Undoubtedly, this presents significant concerns regarding efficiency and democracy. Moreover, the taxpayer is bound to be less than thrilled about these escalating costs.
Yours faithfully,
Martin McDonald,
Terenure,
Dublin 12.