Annual Report 2019

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Message from the Taoiseach

I welcome the publication of this report which sets out the activities of the Taoiseach’s Department throughout 2019 in delivering on the Strategic Priorities in the Department’s Statement of Strategy.

2019 was a challenging year for Ireland and I would like to thank the staff in the Department for their continued expertise and commitment. This report only reflects a fraction of the work that transpires on a day-to-day basis but which plays a crucial role in supporting both the Taoiseach and the Government.

I am honoured by my recent appointment as Taoiseach and I look forward to working with the staff of the Department as we go forward to tackle issues like Covid19, Brexit, and the recovery of our economy and society.

Micheál Martin Taoiseach

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Introduction by the Secretary General

This is the third and final Annual Report to be published under the Department of the Taoiseach’s Statement of Strategy 2017-2020 and reflects the work that was carried out the Department under each of its Strategic Priorities.

Throughout 2019 the Department continued to support the Taoiseach and Government including through supporting Cabinet meetings, providing policy advice, implementing Government policy, organising State events and inward official visits, Parliamentary Questions, EU engagements, and facilitating the productive relationship between the Government and the Oireachtas.

Brexit was a strong feature in the work of the Department and staff worked closely with colleagues in the Department of Foreign Affairs to co-ordinate the whole-of-Government effort on planning, programme management and communications on Brexit preparedness. This work is continuing in 2020 through the negotiations on the future relationship between the EU and the UK.

Through the Cabinet Committee process and Senior Officials Groups, the Department contributed to developing and implementing policy across issues including the economy, infrastructure, the environment, health and Sláintecare, social inclusion, reform of public services, security, and EU matters.

As well as an increased role for the Department in the area of climate action and policing reform, other key areas where the Department contributed include: Future Jobs Ireland, Project 2040, Rebuilding Ireland, Marine Planning, North East Inner City, and the new National Childcare Scheme.

The Department supported the Taoiseach as he undertook an extensive programme of EU and international high-level political and diplomatic engagements throughout 2019. As well as promoting Ireland’s position on Brexit, these engagements were an opportunity for the Taoiseach to advance Ireland's interests with his fellow members of the European Council, promote Ireland’s strategic interests including Ireland’s successful UN Security Council campaign, and strengthening Ireland’s bilateral and multilateral relations.

I would like to thank the staff in the Department for their continued hard work and dedication throughout the year.

Martin Fraser Secretary General

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Our Mission

Our purpose is to help the Taoiseach and the Government to develop a sustainable economy and a successful society, to pursue Ireland’s interests abroad, to implement the Government’s Programme and to build a better future for Ireland and all her citizens.

Civil Service Vision

To provide a world-class service to the State and to the people of Ireland

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Strategic Priorities 2017-2020

Following the appointment of the Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar T.D., in June 2017 and the subsequent formation of the new Government, a new Statement of Strategy 2017-2020 was prepared for the Department and published in January 2018. To support the work of the Taoiseach and Government six strategic priorities, agreed in 2017, were identified in the Department’s Strategy Statement 2017 – 2020. A new Strategy Statement will be finalised over the coming months setting out the strategic priorities for the Department over the next three years.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

The Core Functions of the Department in 2019

 Delivering the Executive functions of the Taoiseach and the Government

 Providing the Government Secretariat

 Supporting the Taoiseach in carrying out his duties as Head of Government, including in relation to the Oireachtas, Constitutional issues, Protocol, the European Council, the North/South Ministerial Council and the British-Irish Council

 Working with the Office of the President and with the Houses of the Oireachtas

 Engaging with the formulation and implementation of Government policy, mainly through the system of Cabinet Committees, Senior Officials’ Groups, the Programme for Government Office and the Parliamentary Liaison Unit

 The Office of the Taoiseach

 Support for Independent Ministers in Government

 The Office of the Government Chief Whip (who also has responsibility for the Central Statistics Office)

 Support for the Ministers of State assigned to the Department (with responsibility for Defence; for European Affairs, and for Data Protection)

 The Government Press Office and Government Information Service

 Providing briefing and advice for the Taoiseach on the full range of domestic policy issues and on international affairs (including through the work of the National Economic and Social Council)

 Supporting the Taoiseach and Government in the formulation, implementation and coordination across Government of policy on EU and international matters and in respect of Northern Ireland and British-Irish relations

 Delivering support services through Protocol and Corporate Affairs Division (HR, Finance, IT and other services).

Through the Civil Service Management Board, which is chaired by the Secretary General, we provide collective leadership of the Civil Service Renewal Programme, working closely with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Highlights

During 2019, the 225.65 staff of the Department of the Taoiseach dealt with:

224 34,084 126 Items of Brexit related high- Domestic Engagements correspondence level engagements

9 53 106 North/South,

General Affairs Councils Government Meetings British/Irish related high level engagements

809 984 18 Cabinet Committee Files transferred to the Memos to Government Meetings National Archives

1,073 188 20 Speeches European Council informal Parliamentary Questions summits and EU high-level engagements

489

Freedom of Information requests

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

The Government and Cabinet Committees

The Department provides the Secretariat to the Government. During 2019, the Government met 53 times and dealt with 984 Memoranda. The Department supported four away-day Cabinet meetings in Dublin, Cork, Meath, and Donegal and also provided support to the Taoiseach for ongoing bilateral meetings between him and Government Ministers.

The Department provides the secretariat for Cabinet Committees and chairs the supporting Senior Officials’ Groups. There were 18 Cabinet Committee meetings in 2019.

In July, the Cabinet Committees were reorganised and constituted as follows:

Cabinet Committee on the Oversees issues relating to the Economy, including Future Jobs Economy Ireland.

Cabinet Committee on Social Oversees issues relating to social policy and public services Policy and Public Services including health and Sláintecare.

Cabinet Committee on Oversees issues relating to infrastructure, Project Ireland 2040 Infrastructure and Rebuilding Ireland (Housing).

Cabinet Committee on Brexit, Oversees issues relating to foreign and European affairs, Foreign and European Affairs including Brexit and the Global Ireland 2025 Initiative.

Cabinet Committee on the Oversees issues relating to the Environment, including the Environment Climate Action Plan.

Oversees issues relating to justice, defence, Garda reform and Cabinet Committee on Security national security.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

State Visits and Events

During 2019, the Department organised, or assisted in organising, a number of notable events and inward official visits, including:

 Prime Minister of Great Britain, Rt Hon Ms. Theresa May M.P.  Prime Minister of Lithuania, H.E. Mr Saulius Skvernelis  Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel  The Honourable Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives and a Delegation from the United States Congress  His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden  President of the United States of America, Donald Trump  Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands  Vice President of the United States, Mr Mike Pence  Prime Minister of Great Britain Rt Hon Mr Boris Johnson  President-elect of the European Council, Mr Charles Michel  Chief Negotiator for Brexit, Mr Michel Barnier

The Department also supported the Taoiseach and the Ministers of State as they represented and promoted Ireland at various meetings and engagements abroad, including:

 St. Patrick’s Day events in Washington D.C. and Chicago; Boston and Pennsylvania; Denmark and Sweden; and Cyprus, Lebanon and Jordan.  Trade mission to Los Angeles focused on growing tourism, trade and inward investment.  The World Economic Forum in Davos.  Bilateral engagement with EU leaders from Portugal, Lithuania, Netherlands, Luxembourg, France, Germany, Sweden, Belgium, Denmark, and Croatia in the context of discussions on the future of Europe and the Brexit negotiations.  British Irish Council Summits held in the UK and in Dublin.  A visit to the United Nations headquarters in New York in September for UN General Assembly events.  Eight European Council meetings including informal and special meetings, and twelve EU high level engagements.  Participation in Paris in the launch of an international initiative ‘Christchurch Call to Action’ aimed at countering terrorist and violent extremist content online.  The Minister of State for European Affairs attended 9 General Affairs Council meetings and had bilateral engagement with Slovenia, Western Balkans, Latvia & Lithuania, Grenada, Caribbean Community Meeting, Denmark, Washington D.C

The Department is responsible for the coordination of the annual Easter Commemoration Ceremony, which takes place at the GPO on Easter Sunday and the National Day of Commemoration. The Department was also responsible for the organisation of a reception to mark the 100th Anniversary of the First Dáil in the Mansion House on 21 January.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Strategic Priority A – Support the Taoiseach and Government (including Support Services)

The Department provided a wide range of support services to the Taoiseach, the Ministers of State assigned to the Department, the Government and the public, as well as internal support services in 2019. This included work associated with 53 Government meetings, 1,000+ Parliamentary Questions, briefings, 188 speeches, 489 Freedom of Information requests, Internal Audit, tours of Government Buildings, responding to representations from the public, organising events and responding to media queries. The Department also provided administrative support to two Commissions of Investigation, and the Citizens’ Assembly.

The Programme for Government Office in the Department published the third Annual Report in 2019 setting out progress across all Departments.

The Parliamentary Liaison Unit continued to facilitate the developing relationship between the Government and the Oireachtas. It provided support to Ministers and their Departments on Oireachtas matters, including assistance with Private Members’ Business.

The Department continued to support the work of the Citizens’ Assembly established in 2019 to bring forward proposals to advance gender equality. Dr Catherine Day, former Secretary General of the European Commission, was appointed as Chair of the Assembly.

A referendum was held in May 2019 resulting in the 38th amendment of the Constitution of Ireland removing the minimum living apart period for spouses seeking a divorce and for the recognition of foreign divorces.

The Department co-ordinated the Interdepartmental Group on Security of Ireland’s Electoral Process and Disinformation. The Group published its first progress report in November 2019 which included an outline of a regulatory proposal to regulate transparency of online political advertising. The proposal was approved by Government and is being progressed by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government.

In accordance with Article 25 of the Constitution, the Constitution was enrolled for the 6th time in November 2019. The Department led the process of ensuring the accuracy of the text which is the culmination of work spanning two decades and embodies all amendments since the Constitution was last enrolled in 1999.

Corporate Support Services

The Department’s HR Unit continued to provide HR services to employees and managers in the Department in collaboration with the National Shared Services Office (NSSO). During 2019 HR continued to focus on the promotion of workplace well-being activities, and workplace health initiatives, including the provision of the flu-vaccine to staff which was organised by the Management Services Unit. The Management Services Unit also completed a number of general maintenance projects during 2019 and dealt with 1,867 helpdesk calls.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

The Department’s took a number of measures to promote diversity and inclusion including: participation in AHEAD’s Willing Able Mentoring Programme 2019 involving graduates with disabilities; participation by staff in the 2019 IMI/30% Club Cross-Company Mentoring Programme and participation in Dublin Pride 2019.

The Finance Unit provided a range of financial services that contributed to the effective use of the Department’s financial resources through the delivery of economy, efficiency, value for money and promptness in all expenditure. A total of 2,164 supplier invoices were paid with a total value of €8.1m.

In conjunction with regular ICT support which responded to 8,053 helpdesk calls, continued improvements during 2019 to the ICT infrastructure included an upgrade of all desktop and laptop devices, an upgrade to Windows 10 for all staff, a new high capacity network link providing faster and more robust internet access to the Department and a modern, a new 'Always-On' technology introduced which enables staff to work seamlessly from home or other locations, and upgrades to eCabinet.

There was a particular focus on cyber security testing including detailed penetration tests and simulated hacking exercises with external partners, replacing the anti-virus solution on all servers and workstations, and a pilot monitoring project undertaken with the National Cyber Security Centre.

The Department’s Information & Records Management Unit administered the transfer of 809 files or file parts in respect of the year 1989 to the National Archives in line with the National Archives Act.

The Department complied with and met all its responsibilities under the EU General Data Protection Regulation and Data Protection Acts and the Department’s Data Protection Policy, Privacy Notices, IT Security measures and Record of Processing Activities were reviewed and revised where necessary. A customised e-training course was also developed and rolled out to staff by the Department’s Data Protection Officer on GDPR protecting personal data and data subjects’ rights.

The Department received no disclosures under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 from its employees or former employees in 2019.

A new Official Languages Scheme for the Department was published in 2019 and the Department dealt with 153 items of correspondence in Irish during the year.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Strategic Priority B – Sustainable Economy

The Department supports the Taoiseach and the Government in developing and implementing policy to deliver sustainable and regionally balanced economic growth, quality jobs, and competitiveness, including addressing the economic impacts of Brexit; promoting effective planning and delivery of infrastructure, including housing; and ensuring a ‘whole of Government’ approach to climate action, data protection and broader digital issues.

The Economic Division assists the work of three Cabinet Committees and associated Senior Officials Groups in implementing policies in these areas. - The Cabinet Committee on the Economy is responsible for all issues relating to the economy including Future Jobs Ireland. - The Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure works to ensure a coordinated approach to the areas of infrastructure investment and delivery, Project Ireland 2040, and Rebuilding Ireland (Housing). - The Cabinet Committee on the Environment deals with issues relating to the Environment, including the Climate Action Plan.

The Department, in partnership with the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, leads the Future Jobs Ireland initiative which aims to ensure we are well-placed to meet future challenges facing the Irish economy with a focus on quality, sustainable jobs.

In 2019, the Economic Division contributed to areas of delivery of Project Ireland 2040 and promotion of balanced and sustainable regional development; Rebuilding Ireland including work to establish the Land Development Agency on a legislative basis; the Pension Reform Plan; the cost of insurance; competitiveness issues; the bioeconomy; Marine Planning and the Marine Co-ordination Group; supporting the work of the Grand Canal Innovation District Advisory Group, organising the 2nd Future Jobs Ireland Summit, and hosting the Digital Summit in September.

The Climate Action Plan was published in June and as outlined in the Plan, the Department’s role in relation to climate action was subsequently increased. A Climate Action Delivery Board was established to focus on implementation and hold each Department accountable for the delivery of its actions under the Plan. A Climate Action Unit was established in the Department in support of this work. The Department also contributed to the development of an all of Government approach to Just Transition.

The Division works closely with the Minister of State with responsibility for data protection to help ensure a whole-of-government approach to data protection and broader digital issues, and provides the secretariat to the interdepartmental committee on data issues, to the Government data forum and the Innovation District Advisory Group.

It supports the Taoiseach’s participation in the Labour Employer Economic Forum which brings together representatives of employers and trade unions with Government Minister to discuss areas of shared concern affecting the economy, employment and the labour market.

It also prepares the annual National Risk Assessment and liaises with the Central Statistics Office, an independent Office under the aegis of the Department of the Taoiseach.

The Department leads Ireland's participation in the annual European Semester including co-ordinating Ireland's National Reform Programme.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Strategic Priority C – A Better and Fairer Society

The Department assists the Taoiseach and the Government in delivering public policies and services which drive a socially inclusive and fair society and assists in renewing and transforming the public service. The Social Policy and Public Service Reform Division assists the work of the associated Cabinet Committee and senior officials' group.

The Cabinet Committee on Social Policy and Public Services covers issues relating to health and Sláintecare, education, children, equality, social inclusion; immigration; Irish language, arts and culture; and continued improvements and reform of public services.

During 2019, the Social Policy and Public Service Reform Division contributed to progressing policy in a number of areas including direct provision; health service reforms and Sláintecare; the new National Childcare Scheme; actions to tackle domestic, sexual and gender based violence; child protection issues; the new National Roadmap for Social Inclusion; the new LGBTI+ Strategy; disabilities; redress; mental health; the National Drugs Strategy; gender equality; the National Social Enterprise Policy and the Strategy to Support the Community and Voluntary Sector.

Progress on Civil Service Renewal included: the roll-out of OneLearning; a range of initiatives to improve gender balance across the civil service; Organisational Capability Reviews; continued implementation of the Civil Service People Strategy; structured and transparent talent management programmes; and a Civil Service-wide mobility scheme for Clerical Officers and Executive Officers within the Dublin region.

Developments in 2019 in relation to the North East Inner City included new CCTV cameras; the opening of a Social Inclusion Hub, the first of its kind in Ireland; high quality work experience placements secured for NEIC students; 3 Secondary Schools commenced the P-TECH (Pathways in Technology) Programme; and 55 jobs were provided for local people as part of the Pilot Social Employment Fund.

The Cabinet Committee on Security provides for political oversight of developments in relation to justice and equality issues, including implementation of the Government's programme of reform in the areas of justice and policing.

Progress in the first year of the A Policing Service for our Future Plan includes: the roll-out of a new Operating Model for An Garda Síochána; approximately 600 Gardaí were reassigned from administrative to frontline operational duties; legislation enacted giving Gardaí access to the Workplace Relations Commission for the first time; approval given to draft legislation to underpin the use of recording devices (including body worn cameras), and work well advanced on developing legislation to provide a new coherent framework for the governance and oversight of AGS.

A National Security Analysis Centre was established by the Government in 2019 arising from the recommendations in the Report of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland. The Centre is co-ordinating across relevant Government Departments and agencies to provide strategic analysis to Government on national security threats and to develop a national security strategy.

The Department of Justice and Equality transformation programme – overseen by the Effectiveness and Renewal Group - was completed on schedule and within budget in October 2019, and is the first of its kind in the Irish Civil Service.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Strategic Priority D – Strong Relationships in Europe and the World

The Department supports the Taoiseach in his international engagements to advance Ireland’s strategic interests, drive increased investment, trade and jobs, strengthen Ireland’s bilateral and political relations and develop shared responses to global and regional challenges.

The EU Division works to ensure Ireland plays a full and effective role in all aspects of the European Union, promoting and protecting our national interests while contributing to progress and prosperity across the Union.

In particular, it prepares the Taoiseach’s participation in meetings of the European Council and his meetings with other EU HoSG and with the EU institutions. It takes a strategic approach to Ireland’s engagement on policy matters and to bilateral engagement and alliance building.

It works closely with other Departments to ensure whole-of-Government coherence on issues of significance for Ireland, including for example the EU-UK relationship and the Union’s budget, and maintains an overview of progress on major horizontal EU policies. It contributes to discussion of and thinking on these issues across the system.

The main priorities for 2019 included engagement on Brexit, adoption of a new Strategic Agenda by the European Council, climate neutrality and the Paris Agreement, EMU reform, EU external relations, and negotiations on the post-2020 Multiannual Financial Framework. The Taoiseach attended eight European Council meetings in 2019 (including informal and special meetings) which also included a substantial programme of bilateral meetings with EU leaders.

The International Section supports the Taoiseach’s work in advancing Ireland’s foreign policy and economic objectives, strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations and growing trade and investment.

The Taoiseach undertook an extensive programme of international visits in 2019, beginning with an official visit to Mali and Ethiopia in January. In Mali, he met the President and visited the Irish Defence Forces contingent on the UN-mandated EU Training Mission. In Ethiopia, he met the Prime Minister and President, visited the African Union headquarters, met the Irish community and Irish NGOs and visited taxpayer-supported projects including a UNHCR refugee camp.

Other international visits in 2019 included to the World Economic Forum in Switzerland; the EU- League of Arab States Summit in Egypt; a UN Leaders Summit in New York; St. Patrick’s Day events in the US including a bilateral with President Trump at the White House and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Chicago; and the opening of the new Irish Consulate General in Los Angeles, which also included a trade mission focussed on the tourism, creative and tech sectors.

The Taoiseach undertook a programme of high-level political and diplomatic engagements throughout 2019 to promote Ireland’s successful UN Security Council campaign. He also welcomed the three most senior US political office holders - President Trump, Vice President Pence and Speaker Pelosi - on official visits to Ireland, as well as a US Congressional Delegation led by Congressman Neal, Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, providing opportunities to deepen Ireland-US bilateral relations and reinforce US support for Ireland’s position in Brexit negotiations.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Strategic Priority E – Brexit (including Northern Ireland)

The Department supports the work of the Taoiseach in respect of the Government’s consideration of Brexit issues including the negotiation process, preparedness and contingency planning. Staff across several divisions contribute to the work on Brexit including the International, EU and Northern Ireland division, and the Economic division.

The Department has a Brexit preparedness and contingency planning unit which works closely with officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to co-ordinate the whole-of-Government effort on planning, programme management and communications on Brexit preparedness.

In preparation for the original withdrawal deadline of March 2019, the Government published an update to its Brexit Contingency Plan in January, which outlined progress in no-deal contingency planning including in the areas of the Common Travel Area, medicines and transport connectivity. The UK subsequently requested an extension to Article 50 which was approved by the EU.

In July, the Government published a further update to the Brexit Contingency Action Plan, taking into account the extensive whole-of-Government and EU level work which had already taken place including the ‘Brexit Omnibus Act’, and which focused on: protecting Irish citizens; assisting businesses; securing ongoing access to essential services and products; infrastructure at our ports and airports; business supports; stakeholder engagement, including information seminars; a nationwide media information campaign; Brexit Stakeholders Forum meetings; and All-Island Civic Dialogue meetings.

During 2019, the Taoiseach took part in eight meetings of the European Council. At each of these Brexit was on the agenda and the Taoiseach contributed actively to the discussion, maintaining throughout the support and solidarity of all EU partners. The Taoiseach also engaged bilaterally on an ongoing basis with EU partners and also with the British PM to advance Ireland’s and the EU’s shared interests in ensuring that the UK’s exit from the EU would be orderly and on the basis of a Withdrawal Agreement that fully protected the gains of the peace process and avoided a hard border on the island.

On 17 October 2019, following a crucial meeting between the Taoiseach and the British PM in Liverpool, the EU and the UK agreed a final text of a Withdrawal Agreement including a new Protocol on Ireland / Northern Ireland, which allows for a more permanent set of arrangements to address the challenges of Brexit on the island of Ireland. The Agreement avoids the need for a hard border, protects the all-island economy, protects the EU single market and Ireland’s place in it, provides for continued North South cooperation, safeguards the pre-existing Common Travel Area between Ireland and the UK, the protection of rights, and other sector-specific issues.

The Agreement also provided for a transition period until 31 December 2020 during which the UK will remain part of the EU's Single Market and Customs Union. The Agreement was subsequently ratified by both sides and the UK left the EU on Friday, 31 January 2020.

On 17 October, the EU and the UK also agreed a Political Declaration setting out the framework for the EU-UK future relationship. This document set out the parameters for an 'ambitious, broad, deep and flexible partnership across trade and economic cooperation with a comprehensive and balanced Free Trade Agreement at its core'. Negotiations are underway to reach an agreement between the

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

EU and the UK on their future relationship. Maintaining a strong and close relationship following the UK's exit from the EU is a priority for the Government. The Department continues to support the Taoiseach and Government in this regard.

Northern Ireland The Britain and Northern Ireland Affairs Division supports and provides advice to the Taoiseach regarding Northern Ireland affairs and British Irish relations. This includes work to advance peace, prosperity and reconciliation on the island of Ireland, including assisting the Taoiseach in his engagement with the British Government, in institutions established under the Good Friday Agreement and on restoration of the institutions including the devolved Assembly and power-sharing Executive.

During 2019, the Government continued to do everything in its power as co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement to secure the effective operation of all the Northern Ireland institutions. The Taoiseach spoke with the Prime Minister frequently including with Prime Minister Johnson after the election in the UK in December where they agreed that there was a significant opportunity to restore the Good Friday Agreement institutions and where they pledged to work with the Northern Ireland parties to achieve this.

Statements by the NI party leaders following the UK general election results in December showed that they recognised that the people in Northern Ireland wished to see power-sharing institutions operating again and that the parties need to get back to doing that.

The Tánaiste and Secretary of State for Northern Ireland continued to meet with the parties both separately and together to seek to an agreement and commitment to getting the Executive and Assembly back up and working again.

The Taoiseach and Prime Minister also agreed to strengthen the bilateral relationship between Ireland and the UK and looked forward to the smooth passage of the Withdrawal Agreement which protects the Good Friday Agreement and gains of the peace process in all its parts.

In addition to addressing the Fifth Plenary Session of the All-Island Civic Dialogue on Brexit in Dublin Castle on 15 February, which was attended by over 400 political, business and civic society leaders from across the island, the Taoiseach visited Northern Ireland five times in total and in August and took the opportunity to meet with business leaders from both sides of the border to discuss the implications of Brexit for both economies.

In May, the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference met in London and discussed matters relating to East-West issues, security and economic cooperation, political stability in Northern Ireland and legacy issues. The Conference also discussed the importance of the ongoing protection of the identity/citizenship provisions of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, and the unique challenges that the UK’s exit from the EU presents.

The Taoiseach hosted the 33rd British-Irish Council Summit in Dublin in November which discussed issues regarding Brexit, the political situation in Northern Ireland, and topics of mutual interest such as the economy, trade and ongoing relations with the EU. The Taoiseach also attended the British- Irish Council Summit which was held in the UK in June.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Strategic Priority F – Planning for the Future (including improving our capability)

The Department, through the Cabinet Committee process, supports and brings a whole-of- government approach to the formulation and implementation of cross-Government policies in a range of areas to address longer-term challenges and plan for the future. The Department has developed an annual process of risk assessment in order to identify and bring focus to policy making which anticipates and prepares for longer term trends and shorter term shocks. The 2019 National Risk Assessment set out the most significant risks facing the country in 2019 including a range of economic, geopolitical, environmental, social, and technological risks with Brexit, Climate Change & Biodiversity, Pandemics and International Trade Tensions featuring strongly.

The Department also supports the NESC in its role of providing strategic advice to the Taoiseach. During 2019, the NESC continued to advise the Taoiseach on strategic policy issues relating to sustainable economic, social and environmental development in Ireland including the publications on Climate Change Policy, and Transport-Oriented Development.

The Department, in partnership with the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, developed and published Future Jobs Ireland 2019, the all of Government economic framework developed to support increased productivity levels in indigenous firms, ensure our skills evolve as the economy changes and increase labour market participation. It is the first in a series of annual reports which enhance the resilience of our economy and ensure we are well placed to exploit future economic opportunities.

The Department contributed to areas of delivery in Project Ireland 2040 and the promotion of balanced and sustainable regional development. Projects delivered on or under budget include road infrastructure, the Luas green line infrastructure and capacity upgrade, a 100-bed community nursing unit in Tymon North and the Cork radiation oncology unit.

In 2019, a Climate Action Plan was published outlining how Ireland will achieve its 2030 targets for carbon emissions and puts us on a trajectory to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The Department is tasked with supervising delivery of the Plan and has a key role to ensure the critical coordination across all departments and agencies. A Climate Action Delivery Board was established to focus on implementation and hold each Department accountable for the delivery of its actions under the Plan and a Climate Action Unit was established in support of this work.

Matters relating to Sláintecare were discussed at the Cabinet Committee on Social Policy and Public Services and in 2019 the first annual Action Plan was published to implement Sláintecare’s objectives and vision. Progress under the 2019 Action Plan includes the formal establishment of the HSE Board and the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer of the HSE, six regional health areas approved by Government, the Report of the Independent Review Group to examine private activity in public hospitals was published; an Elective Hospital Oversight Group was established, and new GP contracts announced.

The Innovation District Advisory Group, chaired by the Department’s Secretary General, submitted its report to Government in December recommending that the Innovation District be developed and that consideration be given to what role Government support might play in its development. A reconstituted Advisory Group will oversee the next steps in the development of the Innovation District including development of charter, establishment of community special interest group and explore possible sources of funding.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Improving Our Capability

The Department continues to value and invest in its talent by actively supporting workplace learning. Having participated in OneLearning’s Learning Management System pilot in Quarter 4 of 2018, the Department subsequently participated in wave one of the project when it went live in Q2 of 2019. Throughout 2019 there were opportunities for employees to undertake academic study in areas aligned with the business needs of the Department, and to attend relevant seminars and conferences.

As part of our commitment to continuous strengthening of our leadership capability, a Leadership Development Programme for Senior Management was launched in Q3 of 2019. Participants in the programme explored the theme of ‘Leaders Building Leaders’ though individual coaching sessions, leadership diagnostics and three masterclass-style group workshops.

There was continued emphasis on performance management particularly through focused induction and probation processes. The Department’s ePMDS compliance rate for 2019 was 97%.

The Department provides secretarial support to the Civil Service Management Board and works closely with the Civil Service renewal programme management office in the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. Progress on Civil Service Renewal include: the roll-out of OneLearning; a range of initiatives to improve gender balance across the civil service; Organisational Capability Reviews; continued implementation of the Civil Service People Strategy; structured and transparent talent management programmes; and a Civil Service-wide mobility scheme for Clerical Officers and Executive Officers within the Dublin region.

In 2019, three Civil Service Renewal Town Hall meetings took place across the country which were attended by approximately 570 people. The meetings including themes such as providing an overview of innovation supports in the Civil and Public Service, and panel discussions of ‘Opportunities for Innovation within the Civil Service – are you innovating for the future?’

The first progress report on Our Public Service 2020 was published in October and examples of reform initiatives delivered in 2019 include the launch of a new Public Service Project Management Handbook; a compilation of Case Studies on Programme and Project Management, the establishment of the Procurement Framework for Robotic Process Automation; An Garda Síochána’s Active Mobility Service; The Library Service’s My Open Library initiative; Revenue Commissioners PAYE Modernisation; and Innovation Week held in December.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Expenditure for the Year 2019

2019 Outturn €000 ADMINISTRATION Salaries, Wages and Allowances 14,635 Travel and Subsistence 476 Training and Development and Incidental Expenses 1,688 Postal and Telecommunications 224 Office Equipment and External IT Services 1,106 Offices Premises Expenses 365 Consultancy Services 0

Total Administration 18,494

OTHER SERVICES National Economic and Social Development Office (Grant-in-Aid) 1,876 Tribunals of Inquiry 929 Commissions of Investigation 3,688 Citizens’ Assembly 201 Gross Total 25,188 Less Appropriations-in-Aid (707)

Net Total 24,481 (Interest/compensation paid in 2019 because of late payments totalled €1,051.74)

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Staffing

There were 225.65 whole-time equivalent staff working in the Department at end 2019 excluding staff in NESDO, Tribunals of Inquiry, and Commissions of Investigation.

1.7 2.8 5 29 16.2

15 6.9

20.3

43.3

27.5

24.25 25.7

Corporate Affairs (IT, HR, MSU, Finance)

Information and Records Management Unit

Social Policy and Public Service Reform

Economic

International, EU and Northern Ireland

Brexit Preparedness and Contingency Unit

Govt Sec, Protocol and PLU

Taoiseach and Minsters of State Offices

Government Information Service (incorporating the Government Press Office)

Service Staff

Internal Audit

NSAC

Citizens’ Assembly

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

Overview of energy use in 2019

Energy usage in the Government Buildings complex, which includes the Department of the Taoiseach, is administered by the Houses of the Oireachtas. Energy usage in the Department is incurred for lighting, heating, air-conditioning, hot water, office and IT equipment and catering equipment.

During 2019 the Department published a Resource Efficiency Plan under a number of main headings – Energy, Waste Management, Water, Recycling, Travel and Materials. A Green Team was established to help implement those actions and drive awareness and support across the whole Department. An energy awareness event was also organised to answer questions and offer advice and tips around energy consumption both at work and at home.

The Department is continually engaged with the Office of Public Works on various projects and ideas that will aim to achieve more energy efficiencies in line with Green Government guidelines. A programme of lighting upgrades around the building was completed during 2019. This involved replacing existing lighting with LED light bulbs and retro-fitting light fittings where necessary.

During 2019, the Department of the Taoiseach consumed a total of energy as follows:

- 1028 MWH of Electricity

- 922 MWH of Gas

The Department also consumed 4.75 tonnes of wood pellets used in the complex’s biomass boiler.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019

State Board Appointments

The Taoiseach appoints members to two state boards – the NESC and the National Statistics Board. Appointments generally fall into three categories - independent members, members nominated by sectoral organisations and ex-officio members (including public servants). The Taoiseach has limited discretion on appointments depending on the category where the vacancy arises. All appointments to the NESC and to the National Statistics Board are made in line with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform Guidelines on Appointments to State Boards and on the basis of the relevant legislative provisions.

Membership (31 December 2019)

Sectoral Independent Ex-officio Total % Female Nominees

M F M F M F M F National Economic and 4 3 9 6 4 2 17 11 39% Social Council National Statistics Board 0 2 3 0 3 0 6 2 25%

Appointments in 2019

Number of Gender appointments in 2019 M F

4* 3 1 National Economic and Social Council National Statistics Board 1** 0 1

* Appointed on the basis of nominations from sectoral organisations ** Chairperson of the Board appointed

The Department of the Taoiseach will endeavour to improve gender balance on the NESC and the National Statistics Board by requesting nominating bodies and organisations to take account of gender balance when making nominations in future. The Department will also seek to ensure that the nomination of independent members continues to meet the Government’s gender balance objective.

Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report 2019