£7.4m in 'potential savings' found across government

Efficiencies and Change Programme publishes first quarterly report

Government says it's identified more than £7m in potential savings as part of the first quarterly report for its Efficiencies and Change Programme.

It's part of efforts to deliver what are described as 'tangible savings and simpler, faster and more cost-effective public services for the Island.'

The programme, government says, is central to achieving at least £10 million in savings this financial year, and a minimum of £50 million over the next five years.

Tim Crookall, Minister without Portfolio, says: "With the Efficiencies and Change Programme firmly up and running, this quarter marks the beginning of a serious, long-term effort to reform the way government works.

"The report shows that, as of the end of June, over £7 million in potential savings have already been identified. Since then, the figures are tracking higher, and further updates will be shared at the upcoming Government Conference. 

"While that figure is an early estimate which we expect to evolve, and the benefits won’t all be immediate, all Departments are now engaged, programme structures are in place and momentum and direction is clear - not only to accelerate new reforms, but to bring greater focus and visibility to the important work already happening across the public sector in support of this goal.

"Change is never easy. It takes investment and a willingness to do things differently. But if we want public services that are truly fit for the future, that are simpler, faster and more cost-effective, then we have to deliver more than short-term fixes.

"People rightly expect high-quality services that are easy to use and built around their needs, without relying on continual growth in public sector headcount or the overall salary bill. This Programme is about meeting that expectation, and doing it in a way that’s built to last."

You can find the report HERE.