REFORM OF the public service was made a priority by Brian Cowen when he became Taoiseach a little more than a year ago. Now, following months of negotiation with trade unions in extremely difficult economic circumstances, there is hope that progress can be made. Key accommodations will have to be reached before the end of this month. At stake is whether restructuring of the public service can take place without disruption and in an orderly fashion.
Talks on a new social partnership deal are providing a framework for change. Measures to protect and to create employment in the private sector, along with pension protection initiatives, are being offered by Government in return for commitments on public sector reform. Strong resistance to the introduction of change and the reallocation of staff has been so pronounced within the health services that talks collapsed earlier this week. The HSE suspended its voluntary redundancy programme because trade unions objected to the necessary redeployment of remaining staff. Similar difficulties may emerge in the civil service where 3,500 employees have applied for early retirement.
The need for public and civil service reform is beyond question. From the survival of an antiquated system of “privileged days”, to public opening and working hours and demarcation arrangements, the system has become practically sclerotic. A bloody-minded response to suggestions for change by certain employees has made the situation difficult. But Government finances are in such a desperate situation that traditional fudges cannot be tolerated. There may be genuine concerns in relation to the redeployment of staff to adjoining towns. But it is reasonable to expect flexibility and work commitment from the holders of permanent, well-paid jobs.
If the Government holds its nerve and insists on reform, social partnership may deliver a more efficient and responsive public service. It could mark the beginning of more fundamental change as the so-called “An Bord Snip” presents its long-awaited recommendations on the more effective use of public service numbers. A review of pay levels for Ministers, judges and higher civil and public servants is due in September. It is expected to suggest reductions in salaries. In the past, pay increases had a knock-on effect for others. The effect on this occasion will be keenly watched.
Due to the recession, a real opportunity exists to introduce essential reforms. Mr Cowen should get on with it.