Civil Service publish 33-point action plan to inspire greater confidence

The civil service has announced a 33-point action plan to inspire greater confidence.

It comes following an external independent review which examined the handling of concerns and other matters raised in a case taken by a former Department of Agriculture employee.

That review highlighted issues in the recording and escalating of concerns, the application of some policies and the way in which employment-related legal cases are managed by the Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS).

Head of the NICS Jayne Brady said it will implement the 33 actions to create greater confidence it is delivering the best possible service.

“Concerns must always be raised, listened to and acted upon in the proper manner. It is critical that every civil servant maintains proper records and that all policies are up-to-date. These are the foundations of good governance,” she said.

“Some of the issues identified in this review, particularly in relation to record-keeping, were previously highlighted by the Inquiry into the Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme (RHI) report. This is not good enough and as leaders of the NI Civil Service, we will rigorously pursue progress against the recommendations.

“Improving the application of policies and procedures is a starting point, but real success requires behavioural and cultural change. Work is already underway to empower and support civil servants in effectively delivering the work of government and to develop an inclusive workplace culture.”

A new NICS Raising a Concern Policy Framework has also been published.

These guidelines for departments set out – for the first time – a single, overarching approach to dealing with concerns raised.

A refreshed Civil Service Code of Ethics, which includes the obligation on all civil servants to keep proper records, will be embedded into performance management processes.