Finance Minister publishes framework on location of public sector jobs

A framework to underpin decisions on the location of public sector jobs resulting from the Review of Public Administration, was launched today by the Finance Minister.

Explaining the move, Rt Hon Peter Robinson MP, MLA said: “The implementation of the Review of Public Administration will involve the creation of a number of new public bodies in various sectors such as health and education and this could mean some relocation of public sector jobs across Northern Ireland.

“I recognise that the location of public sector jobs has important implications for communities throughout Northern Ireland and it is therefore essential that the decisions are objective, fair and well informed. I believe that this framework is a very helpful way forward."

Mr Robinson said that in the short term it will provide a robust and transparent process for decisions on location for the RPA-related bodies:

“However, the Executive recognises the need to think about the longer term and put in place a more strategic approach to the location of public sector jobs. Therefore the Executive has agreed to a time-bound review of policy on the location of public-sector jobs in Northern Ireland.

“The Executive will shortly be discussing the draft terms of reference for the review and it will get underway as soon as possible thereafter.”

Notes to Editors:

1.The Executive has agreed to adopt a two-pronged approach in relation to the location of public sector jobs:

To put in place a framework to provide a robust process for decision-making on the location of Review of Public Administration-related bodies; and

To undertake a time-bound review of policy on the location of public sector jobs in Northern Ireland.

2.The Minister of Finance & Personnel made a statement on the issue to the Northern Ireland Assembly on 24 September 2007.

3.Copies of the framework can be downloaded from: http://www.rpani.gov.uk/index/cross-cutting-themes/estate-issues.htm

or by contacting at: emma.wilson@dfpni.gov.uk or

4.Media enquiries only to DFP Press Office on 028 9052 7644 or 028 9052 27375. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.