Downloads by Theme
This page contains a list of all available document downloads listed under each theme.
Budget And Troika
2012 Article IV Consultation With Ireland--Concluding Statement Of The IMF Mission July 18, 2012 
(July 23, 2012)
This document describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the conclusion of their mission to Ireland under Article IV of the IMF's Articles of Agreement.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
2012 Exchequer Tax Revenue & Debt Service Expenditure; Monthly Profiles 
(February 1, 2012)
Details of expected tax revenue profile consistent with Budget 2012 forecast of €35,825 million. The Budget 2012 forecast for Exchequer debt servicing in 2012 is €7,407 million. Created by Department of Finance, February, 2012.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Fiscal Fact Sheets
2013 Estimates of Receipts and Expenditure (Pre-Budget)
(December 3, 2012)
2013 Estimates of Receipts and Expenditure (Pre-Budget). Department of Finance.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
6th IMF Review
(June 18, 2012)
The 6th IMF staff report of the Irish bailout.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Policy Briefs
8th IMF Review
(December 20, 2012)
Ireland: Eighth Review Under the Extended Arrangement; Staff Report; Staff Supplements; and Press Release on the Executive Board discussion
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Aurora Colorado and The Importance of Social Capital
(February 6, 2013)
Social capital is that set of reflexes we absorb from our culture, religion, families and our ancestors. It shapes how we react to crisis and opportunity
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Austerity - Measuring The Pain
(October 31, 2012)
A review of recent work on measuring the impact of austerity from the ESRI, with implications for how we view the pain it imposes.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Budget 2012
(February 28, 2012)
Presentation to the IPA by Mr Derek Moran, Assistant Secretary, Tax Policy Unit, Department of Finance.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Presentations/Conference
Budget 2013 - How Should We Deal with the Deficit in the Social Insurance Fund?
(November 7, 2012)
Commentary on the Deficit in the Social Insurance Fund.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Budget 2013 - Insights From Daniel Kahneman
(September 3, 2012)
We weigh losses far more heavily than equivalent gains, and we infer the general from the particular, rather than induce the particular from the general. These and many other features of our behaviour are elegantly documented in Thinking, Fast and Slow, authored by Nobel Prize winning Daniel Kahneman. In addition to loss aversion, he identifies the halo effect, anchoring, luck, the planning fallacy, optimism bias, the endowment effect and many other features characterising how we behave. They have considerable value as explanations as to how we got into such economic disarray, and provide some pointers as to how to frame the process of making progress. In this commentary, I summarise a few of the key insights, and their relevance to our situation in Ireland.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Budget 2013 - Progressivity of Irish Income Tax System
(September 14, 2012)
Key Point
Based on the standard OECD measure Ireland has the most progressive income tax system (including social insurance contributions) in the EU.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Budget 2013 - Three Cheers For The Carbon Tax
(September 22, 2012)
Ireland is a pioneer in the implementation of a carbon tax. This has allowed us to avoid (more) increases in income tax which would have further reduced disposable income, increased labour costs and destroyed jobs. It is also facilitating us in meeting our very demanding legally binding obligations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and provides support for the creation of new jobs
in improving energy efficiency and growing the low carbon economy. We will continue to benefit economically and environmentally if we keep it in place, and increase the rate per tonne of CO2 from
€20 to €25, as envisaged in the programme for government.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Budget 2013 – Saorview Switchover a Windfall for Government
(October 23, 2012)
By now most people will have heard about the switch to Saorview, whereby the analogue signal currently used to broadcast TV will be switched off at 10am on October 24th and replaced with a digital signal. What is less well known are the potential revenue benefits the switchover could have for the government. By freeing up scarce spectrum resources, the switch to Saorview paves the way for an auction of new mobile network licences that could raise €205 million immediately, and double that over the next fifteen years. Read this note to find out more.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Budget 2013 Economic and Fiscal Outlook
(December 5, 2012)
Recent developments, economic forecasts, and their impact on the Irish fiscal position
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Budget 2013 Expenditure Statement
(December 6, 2012)
Speech by Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Brendan Howlin
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Budget 2013 Financial Statement
(December 5, 2012)
Budget Day speech by Minister for Finance Michael Noonan
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Budgetary & Economic Statistics October 2012
(October 11, 2012)
Part 1 contains budgetary statistics. The 2011 and 2012 voted expenditure figures are taken
from the 2012 Estimates for Public Services, published in February 2012.
Part 2 contains economic statistics mainly on the Irish economy with some comparisons
with other international economies.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Fiscal Fact Sheets
Cumulative Profiles of Expected Exchequer Expenditure and Revenue 2013
(March 5, 2013)
Cumulative Profiles of Expected Exchequer Expenditure and Revenue 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Do The Benefits Of The London Olympics Justify The Cost of £9.3 Billion
(February 11, 2013)
The Benefits and Costs of the London Olympics
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Draft Memorandum of Understanding March 2013
(March 28, 2013)
This is the review of the Troika Programme published 28 March, 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Dragon O'Sullivan Identifies Ireland's Critical Contraint
(February 4, 2013)
Living is about dealing with constraints – physical, economic, social, emotional, psychological and environmental. And a successful life is about knowing which constraints are critical, which are the ones we can do something about, and acting accordingly.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Economic Adjustment Programme for Ireland Autumn 2012 Review
(January 29, 2013)
Economic Adjustment Programme for Ireland Autumn 2012 Review
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Economic Adjustment Programme for Ireland Spring 2012 Review
(June 26, 2012)
The European Commission comment on the Irish bailout
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Economic Forecast for Ireland Spring 2013
(May 6, 2013)
Economic Forecast for Ireland Spring 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
EU Commission 9th review of Irish Programme April 2013
(April 24, 2013)
EU Commission 9th review of Irish Programme April 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
EU IMF Programme of Financial Support for Ireland November 2012
(December 12, 2012)
EU IMF Programme of Financial Support for Ireland November 2012
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
EU/IMF Memorandum of Understanding February, 2012
(February 10, 2012)
This is the Fourth Quarterly Review of the Memorandum of Understanding covering the period to December 2011) Created by Department of Finance. (10 February 2012)
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Fiscal Fact Sheets
Euro Area Economic Situation & The Foundations For Growth (slides from the presentation)
(March 21, 2013)
Presentation by Mario Draghi, President of the ECB,
at the Euro Summit, Brussels,14 March 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,Other Documents
Evaluation of EU VAT System
(April 20, 2012)
A retrospective evaluation of elements of the EU VAT System.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Research Reports
Exchequer Position For The First Half of 2012
(July 5, 2012)
Department of Finance presentation of the Exchequer Position for the first half of 2012
Categories : Budget and Troika,Fiscal Fact Sheets
Exchequer Returns 31 January 2013 
(February 6, 2013)
Monthly exchequer returns in Excel format. Returns are broken down in to their separate tax headings
Categories : Budget and Troika,Fiscal Fact Sheets
Finance at Centre Stage: Some Lessons of the Euro Crisis
(April 3, 2013)
The author describes how EMU design failures contributed to the European financial crisis, and proposes a redesign of the EMU that includes fiscal and banking unions.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Fiscal Adjustment - Too Much of a Good Thing?
(February 8, 2012)
Almost everyone agrees that the fiscal accounts of several advanced economies are in a pretty bad shape and need to be strengthened. But how rapid should the adjustment be? At times over the last couple of years, the IMF called on countries to step up the pace of adjustment when we thought they were moving too slowly. This column says that in the current environment, some might be going too fast.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Critical Analysis,External Analysis
Fiscal Assessment Report (Apr 2012)
(March 1, 2012)
This Fiscal Assessment Report assesses the macroeconomic and budgetary projections set out by Government in Budget 2012, including the appropriateness of the overall fiscal stance over the period to 2015.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Research Reports
Fiscal Assessment Report (September 2012)
(September 13, 2012)
This Report assesses the macroeconomic and budgetary projections set out by the Government in the Stability Programme Update 2012, and in advance of Budget 2013 and the appropriateness of the fiscal stance over the period to 2015. The report also considers the longer-term implications of compliance with the fiscal rules in the Fiscal Responsibility Bill.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Fiscal Assessment Report, April 2013
(April 10, 2013)
The report assesses the Department of Finance's official macroeconomic and budgetary projections in the context of Budget 2013 and the forthcoming Stability Programme Update. The report also considers the appropriateness of the fiscal stance over the period to 2015, and looks at Ireland's compliance with the fiscal rules legislated for under the Fiscal Responsibility Act.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Fiscal Devaluation
(April 25, 2012)
During the boom years, the competitiveness of the Irish economy deteriorated. Recovery depends on the restoration of our competitive position.
When an economy becomes uncompetitive, a standard way of addressing the problem is to devalue the currency. Ireland did this in 1986 and 1993. But as members of a currency union this option is no longer available.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Critical Analysis,Our Analysis
IMF 9th Review of Ireland’s Programme March 2013
(April 4, 2013)
IMF 9th Review of Ireland’s Programme March 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
IMF Completes Ninth Review Under the Extended Fund Facility with Ireland
(March 23, 2013)
IMF Completes Ninth Review Under the Extended Fund Facility with Ireland and Approves €0.97 Billion Disbursement.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
IMF Fiscal Monitor & Database April, 2013
(April 19, 2013)
IMF Fiscal Monitor & Database April, 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
IMF Staff Report On Ireland
(September 24, 2012)
The IMF Staff report on Ireland - September 10, 2012
Categories : Budget and Troika,Research Reports
Implementing EU Directives - An Opportunity to Lead.
(February 18, 2013)
There are many areas where the performance of the EU can be improved. Improving the governance of banks and addressing public debt have dominated recent efforts in Ireland and across the Union. Now that the promissory note aspect of our banking crisis has been addressed, there is an opportunity to focus on another area where the performance of the EU and Ireland is inadequate.
There has been significant policy failure in the implementation of EU directives in Ireland and other Member States. The European Affairs Committee of the Oireachtas (Parliament) should be given an explicit mandate to monitor and report on our performance. Ireland should use its influence in Europe to put this issue on the EU agenda
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Institutional Sector Accounts 2011
(November 9, 2012)
This release contains important data on savings and household deb.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
International Comparisons of Taxation and Public Spending and GNP/GDP
(May 31, 2012)
This note explains why it is appropriate in comparing levels of public expenditure in Ireland with other countries to use the proportion of GNP in Ireland’s case.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis,Working Papers
Ireland and Greece: A Tale of Two Fiscal Adjustments
(March 20, 2013)
This short note from the Institute of International Finance compares and contrasts the recent economic fortunes of Ireland and Greece. Ireland’s relative success comes not just from its larger export sector and improved competitiveness, but also a gentler pace of fiscal consolidation and lower multiplier.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Ireland's Current Fiscal Profile
(May 9, 2013)
This note sets out the key facts in relation to the current Irish fiscal position as at May 2013.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Ireland's Report Card March, 2013
(March 7, 2013)
Ireland's Report Card March, 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Ireland's Return To The Bond Markets
(July 29, 2012)
Ireland returned to the bond markets after an absence of two years. Here, we analyse the results.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Ireland's Stability Programme Update
(April 30, 2012)
This is Ireland's Stability Programme Update (SPU) which has been submitted to the EU Commission and which incorporates the Department of Finance spring forecasts for 2012.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Policy Briefs
Ireland's Tax Expenditure System: International Comparisons & A Reform Agenda
(January 16, 2010)
Tax expenditures, also known as tax incentives or tax breaks, represent an infrequently explored and little understood area of Irish public policy. Despite this, they account for more than billion per annum in exchequer revenue forgone (2006 figures).
This paper examines the tax expenditure regime in Ireland and highlights the role that tax expenditures should play in the budgetary adjustment planned for late 2010 and in other years. It looks at the nature and scale of Ireland’s tax expenditure system in national and international contexts and considers their impact, advantages, limitations and consequences. Concludes with suggested reforms.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Working Papers
Ireland: Regaining Creditworthiness
(June 26, 2012)
Investor Presentation from the NTMA
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Ireland’s Digital Dividend: How Much is it Worth?
(July 23, 2012)
The 2012 mobile licence auction will yield revenue for the state. This note explains what is happening and attempts to ascertain how much it is worth.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Working Papers
Maastricht Returns
(April 22, 2013)
Eurostat publishes Maastricht returns which show that Ireland's General Government Deficit in 20012 was 7.6 % of GDP. The forecast for 2013 is 7.4 % of GDP.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Maastricht Returns Information Note
(April 25, 2012)
This note by the Department of Finance explains the out turn of 2011 general Government deficit and debt and gives forecasts for 2012.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Fiscal Fact Sheets
Maastricht Returns Information Note October 2012
(October 24, 2012)
Maastricht Returns Information Note October 2012
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Macro-Financial Review November 2012
(November 28, 2012)
Macro-Financial Review November 2012. Central Bank of Ireland
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Making Sure Economists Do More Good Than Harm.
(February 4, 2013)
Economics is the science of choice. The job of economists is to take away the punch bowl just when the party gets going. It's perhaps the only field where, the more they get it wrong, the more their services are in demand – perverse incentives on a grand scale.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Medium Term Fiscal Statement November 2012
(November 14, 2012)
Department of Finance - Medium Term Fiscal Statement November 2012
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Monthly Economic Bulletin May 2013
(May 8, 2013)
Department of Finance Monthly Economic Bulletin March 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,Fiscal Fact Sheets
Mortgage Arrears
(February 28, 2013)
This note contains the latest statistics on mortgage arrears and mortgage restructuring, as well as a brief description of the new bankruptcy regime.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Fiscal Fact Sheets
New EU Surveillance Process Report
(February 1, 2012)
This report (Feb12) marks the first step in implementing the new surveillance procedure for the prevention and correction of macroeconomic imbalances in the EU. Countries that are already under increased economic surveillance (Greece, Ireland, Portugal & Romania) are not examined.
Further in-depth analysis is recommended for Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Spain, France, Italy, Cyprus, Hungary, Slovenia, Finland, Sweden and the UK.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Research Reports
New Government Finance Statistics issued by CSO
(April 22, 2013)
Government Finance Statistics Annual Results 2009-2012 (April 2013) (PDF 141KB)
Government Finance Statistics Quarterly Results 2009-2012 (April 2013) (PDF 104KB)
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
OECD Economic Forecast for Ireland (Summary) November 2012
(November 28, 2012)
OECD Economic Forecast for Ireland (Summary) November 2012
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
OECD on Ireland (2011)
(January 1, 2011)
Economic survey on Ireland by the OECD.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Research Reports
OECD Taxing Wages 2011
(April 27, 2012)
This report finds that Ireland is among the OECD countries that levy a relatively low tax burden on labour income, particularly for single parents with low earnings. In 2000, the average tax wedge (income taxes plus employee and employer social security contributions minus cash transfers as a percentage of total labour costs) was below the OECD average for all family types in the Taxing Wages Report.
Between 2000 and 2011, the difference compared with the OECD average widened as Ireland reduced the tax wedge considerably except for the single taxpayers with low and high earnings. Over this period, the tax wedge declined by more than 23 percentage points for single parents with low earnings; they received more in government transfers than the taxes they paid. Their tax wedge was the lowest among the OECD countries in 2011.
Note: the Tax Wedge is the sum of personal income tax and employee plus employer social security contributions together with any payroll tax less cash transfers, expressed as a percentage of labour costs
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Research Reports
Presentation: Hidden Behind The Unemployment Rate
(May 9, 2013)
A short presentation on migration, employment and labour market participation delivered by Cormac O’Sullivan at the first annual NERI Labour Market Conference on May 1st 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Press Release: 8th IMF Review
(December 18, 2012)
IMF Completes Eighth Review Under the Extended Fund Facility with Ireland and Approves €0.89 billion Disbursement.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Quarterly Financial Accounts For Ireland: Q2 2012
(November 14, 2012)
Quarterly Financial Accounts for Ireland Quarter 2 2012. Central Bank of Ireland.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Refinancing The Irish Bailout - The Options Post The June 2012 Summit
(October 26, 2012)
This paper consider Ireland's budgetary situation arising out of the banking crisis and the possible means of reducing Ireland's debt burden. Issues dealt with include the composition of Ireland's bank debt, the significance of the June 2012 Euro Area Summit statement for Ireland and the possibility of a deal on the promissory notes
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Review of the Troika Programme (30 May 2012)
(June 14, 2012)
This is the review of the Troika Programme dated 30 May 2012.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Policy Briefs
Review of the Troika Programme of 20 August 2012
(August 27, 2012)
This is a review of the Troika Programme of the 20 August 2012
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Revised Estimates for Public Services 2013
(April 18, 2013)
Revised Estimates for Public Services 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Self-Defeating Austerity?
(November 1, 2012)
1 November 2012
In this paper Holland and Portes present the results of their macro-econometric model of the EU. Specifically they argue that because of the times we live in, large scale and largely uncoordinated fiscal consolidations across the EU will lead to a collective fall in GDP and an increase in debt to GDP ratios. The increase in debt is obviously the opposite of what was intended.
The main conclusions are:
*While in 'normal times', fiscal consolidation would lead to a fall in debt-to-GDP ratios, in current circumstances fiscal consolidation is indeed likely to be 'self-defeating' for the EU collectively.
*The fiscal consolidation plans currently in train will lead to higher - not lower - debt ratios in 2013 in the EU as a whole.
*This will also be true in almost all individual EU nations.
*Ireland is an exception.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Sixth Quarterly Review Of The Memorandum Of Understanding Covering The Period To December 2011
(September 24, 2012)
This is the Sixth Quarterly Review of the Memorandum of Understanding covering the period to December 2011. Date: 20 August, 2012
Categories : Budget and Troika,Fiscal Fact Sheets
Sixth Troika Review Places More Emphasis On Growth
(June 19, 2012)
The latest Troika review contains proposals for a Growth Fund, but spending it wisely will mean making difficult choices.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Stability Programme Update - April 2013
(May 1, 2013)
Stability Programme Update - April 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Statement by EC, ECB and IMF on the Tenth Review Mission to Ireland - May, 2013
(May 13, 2013)
Statement by EC, ECB and IMF on the Tenth Review Mission to Ireland - May, 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Statement By The EC, ECB, & IMF On The Review Mission To Ireland October, 2012
(October 26, 2012)
Statement by the EC, ECB, and IMF on the Review Mission to Ireland October, 2012
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Statement by the EC, ECB, and IMF on the Review Mission to Ireland Feb 2013
(February 8, 2013)
Statement by the EC, ECB, and IMF on the Review Mission to Ireland Feb 2013
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Strengthening Ireland's Fiscal Institutions
(February 1, 2012)
This report assesses elements of the fiscal framework proposed in the Department of Finance’s March 2011 discussion document "Reforming Ireland’s Budgetary Framework" and contains recommendations for the design of a set of fiscal rules and a permanent independent fiscal council.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Research Reports
Summary of 2013 Budget Measures
(December 5, 2012)
Budget 2013 tax changes and their projected impacts
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Survey of Irish Taxation
(April 25, 2012)
An overview of taxation in Ireland.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Fiscal Fact Sheets
Tax Receipts 31 January 2013
(February 6, 2013)
Monthly tax receipts in Excel format. Tax receipts are broken down in to their separate tax headings
Categories : Budget and Troika,Fiscal Fact Sheets
Tax Revenue Profile For 2012
(February 1, 2012)
Details of expected tax revenue profile of individual taxes consistent with Budget 2012 forecast of €35,825 million. Created by Department of Finance, February, 2012.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Fiscal Fact Sheets
Taxation Trends in the European Union 2013 Edition
(May 2, 2013)
This report contains a detailed statistical and economic analysis of the tax systems of the Member States of the European Union, plus Iceland and Norway.
The report also contains indicators of the average effective tax rate falling on consumption, labour and capital, as well as data on environmental and property taxation and on the top rates for the personal and corporate income tax.
Country chapters give an overview of the tax system in each of the 29 countries covered, the revenue trends and the main recent policy changes. Detailed tables allow comparison between the individual countries and European averages. Data cover the 1995-2011 period and are presented both as a percentage of GDP and as a percentage of total taxation
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
The Irish Economy in Perspective June 2012
(July 5, 2012)
This policy brief, prepared by the Department of Finance, contains information on past and projected future developments in the Irish economy.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis,Policy Briefs
The Latest EU Commission Economic Forecast for Ireland
(November 8, 2012)
The latest EU Commission Economic Forecast for Ireland - 7 Nov 2012
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
The Minimum Wage in Ireland
(March 27, 2013)
An analysis of the Irish minimum wage. Although our minimum wage is high by European standards, we also have high prices and high median wages.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Time for Eurozone To Revisit Default Debt Option
(November 14, 2012)
Irish Times article by Ashoka Moody.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
Time Series of Key Economic Indicators
(April 13, 2012)
Tax ratios as a percentage of GDP.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Fiscal Fact Sheets
Towards a Genuine Economic and Monetary Union
(April 3, 2013)
A report by the President of the European Council setting out a vision for reform of the EMU.
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
What Kind of European Banking Union
(April 3, 2013)
The authors discuss the options for a banking union in Europe, highlighting the need for common regulation, a supranational resolution authority, centralised deposit insurance and some form of implicit fiscal backing
Categories : Budget and Troika,External Analysis
What We Don't Know About State Funding
(February 11, 2013)
Eurostat has published figures showing social protection expenditure in 2010 for the EU27 and five other European countries.
Categories : Budget and Troika,Our Analysis
Income Distribution
Distributional Effects of Austerity Measures: A Comparison of Six EU Countries
(February 28, 2012)
Study into the effects of increases in personal taxes, cuts in spending and reductions in public sector pay up to mid-2011 in Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, Portugal and the UK. Key finding is that the burden of fiscal consolidation is shared differently.
The scale of the adjustment in Ireland is relatively very large - at two and a half times the average adjustment in the other 5 countries and is also relatively progressive.
Categories : External Analysis,Income Distribution,Working Papers
Earnings And Labour Cost Data 2011
(November 9, 2012)
Earnings And Labour Cost Data 2011. Central Statistics Office.
Categories : External Analysis,Income Distribution
Employment Earnings Inequality - Seminar Presentation
(November 19, 2012)
Employment Earnings Inequality in Ireland 2006 -2010. Seminar Presentation
Categories : Income Distribution,Our Analysis
Employment Earnings Inequality in Ireland 2006-2010
(November 15, 2012)
Report on Earnings Inequality in Ireland 2006 - 2010
Categories : Income Distribution,Our Analysis
Eurostat: Ireland Spent 29.6 % of GDP on Social Protection in 2010(35.6 % of GNP)
(December 3, 2012)
Eurostat - Ireland spent 29.6 % of GDP on social protection in 2010(35.6 % of GNP)
Categories : External Analysis,Income Distribution
Eurostat: Number at Risk of Poverty or Social Exclusion
(December 5, 2012)
Eurostat New Release: In 2011, 24% of the population were at risk of poverty or social Exclusion
Categories : External Analysis,Income Distribution
Evidence On The Incentive To Work
(May 13, 2013)
This note assesses recent evidence on the incentive to work. It discusses the measures by which economists gauge work incentives and outlines the results of various empirical studies. Despite a relatively generous welfare net and the costs associated with working, most of the evidence suggests that the majority of unemployed people would be better off in a job.
Categories : Income Distribution,Our Analysis
Gini Co-Efficients OECD
(February 2, 2012)
The Gini Coefficient is a measure of income inequality based on data relating to households’ disposable income. A Gini Coefficient of zero indicates perfect income equality, whereas a coefficient of one indicates perfect inequality.
Ireland’s Gini Coefficient (2008) was 0.293, which is below (more equal) the OECD average of 0.316. Preliminary figures for 2010 indicate a Gini coefficient of 0.34.
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Income Distribution
Household Indebtedness: Context, Consequence & Correction
(March 12, 2012)
Speech by The Governor of the Central Bank, Professor Patrick Honohan to the Limerick Law Society in the University of Limerick.
Categories : External Analysis,Income Distribution,Presentations/Conference
Impact Of Financial Turmoil On Households: A Cross Country Comparison
(April 5, 2012)
This paper compares the impact of the financial crisis on Irish households, with 23 other European countries. It finds that Irish households have lost a significant proportion of net worth compared with other countries, due to the substantial decline in house prices. Irish households have greatly increased their savings to reduce high debt levels and have decreased their personal debt levels more than any other country since 2008.
Categories : External Analysis,Income Distribution,Research Reports
Income And Expenditure Of Irish Households In 2009/10
(July 19, 2012)
By the Central Statistics Office
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Income Distribution
New OECD Data on Income Distribution
(May 16, 2013)
The latest Gini coefficients for Ireland are .311 in 2011 and .316 in 2010
Categories : External Analysis,Income Distribution
Regional GDP per capita in the EU in 2010
(April 3, 2013)
Regional GDP statistics adjusted for purchasing power parity. While Southern and Easter Ireland is among the leading 25 regions, the Border, Midland and Western region is below average. If GNP were used for Ireland instead of GDP, Ireland would fall from 3rd place in the country rankings to 11th.
Categories : External Analysis,Income Distribution
Report on Child and Family Income Support
(February 20, 2013)
Advisory Group on Tax and Social Welfare
March 2012
Categories : External Analysis,Income Distribution
Report on Use of Tax Reliefs by High Income Taxpayers 2010
(August 21, 2012)
Report on the Use of Tax Reliefs by High Income Taxpayers 2012
Categories : External Analysis,Income Distribution
Revenue Commissioners Statistical Report 2010
(February 28, 2012)
A report on personal incomes based on the tax year 2009. The statistics relate to income assessed for the tax year 2009 based on tax returns processed up to May 2011. PAYE data is based on completed end-of-year returns from employers of which up to 96% were processed in time to be included. The information relating to self-employed taxpayers represents 84% of the expected total tax returns.
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Income Distribution
Revenue Commissioners Statistical Report 2011
(December 12, 2012)
A report on personal incomes based on the tax year 2010. The statistics relate to income assessed for the tax year 2010 based on tax returns processed up to April 2012. PAYE data is based on completed end-of-year returns from employers of which up to 96% were processed in time to be included. The information relating to self-employed taxpayers represents 83% of the expected total tax returns.
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Income Distribution
Social Impact Assessment of the Main Welfare and Direct Tax Measures in Budget 2013
(April 16, 2013)
This document presents a social impact assessment of the main welfare and direct tax components of Budget 2013. In 2011, all social transfers reduced the at-risk-of-poverty rate from 51 per cent to 16 per cent
Categories : External Analysis,Income Distribution
Social Inclusion Monitor
(April 16, 2013)
The Social Inclusion Monitor reports progress towards the national social target for poverty reduction. It is primarily based on the findings of the Survey on Income and Living Conditions 2011, undertaken by the Central Statistics Office. The focus of the Monitor is on social and economic outcomes as they relate to poverty and social exclusion
Categories : External Analysis,Income Distribution
Survey Of Income And Living Conditions - Thematic Report On The Elderly
(August 13, 2012)
Special report on the income and living conditions of the elderly in 2004, 2009 & 2010.
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Income Distribution
Survey of the Benefit System in Ireland 2012
(May 15, 2012)
This paper surveys the benefit system in Ireland. It provides detail on social payments as a percentage of GDP, GNP and overall government expenditure and it compares the benefit system in Ireland to that of the UK.
Categories : Income Distribution,Our Analysis
Survey of the Irish Benefit System March 2013
(March 13, 2013)
This paper surveys the benefit system in Ireland. It provides detail on social payments as a percentage of GDP, GNP and overall government expenditure and it compares the benefit system in Ireland to that of the UK.
Categories : Income Distribution,Our Analysis
Survey On Income And Living Conditions 2011 And Revised 2010 Results
(February 13, 2013)
The official source of data on household and individual income and living conditions in Ireland. Includes national poverty indicators, such as the at risk of poverty rate, the consistent poverty rate and rates of enforced deprivation
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Income Distribution
The Irish Benefit System 2012 - Inputs & Outcomes
(May 23, 2012)
Overview of the Irish benefit system and international evidence regarding the efficiency of the benefit system in terms of how well it reduces income inequality.
Categories : Income Distribution,Our Analysis,Working Papers
We Need A Fair Means Test For Third-level Grants
(March 20, 2013)
Attached is an article from the Irish Times of 19 March 2013 proposing that the means test for third level student grants should take account of capital assets.
Categories : Income Distribution,Our Analysis
Health
Acute Hospital Services
(March 14, 2013)
Clinical data on in-patient and out-patient services
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Health
Budget 2013 & 'Future Health'
(November 30, 2012)
Adjusting for our relatively young population, Ireland has the most expensive health system in Europe. The OECD ranks the productivity of the Irish health system 28th out of 28 and estimates that GDP could be increased by 4.8% if a series of reforms were undertaken. So there is compelling case on economic and health effectiveness grounds for addressing reform. The Government’s “Future Health” document is hugely significant in that, if acted upon, it will affect our well- being and economic and social performance like no other initiative. If we get it wrong, it will cause huge damage. If we get it right, it could be transformative in a positive sense.
Categories : Health,Our Analysis
Budget 2013 - The Case For Periodic Instead of Lump Sum Payments for Damages Arising Out of Alleged Medical Negligence
(August 20, 2012)
Key Point
We should move right away from lump sum to periodic payments in the case of medical negligence cases in Ireland. And this should happen before Budget 2013 is presented to the Oireachtas (Parliament) in December 2012. An excellent report explaining why this should happen, and how it should be done, was presented to the then Minister for Justice almost 2 years ago. Inaction will have many costs, not least that the Minister for Finance will have to find up to about €50 million right away that he (and we) can all ill afford
Categories : Health,Our Analysis
Community Health and Welfare Services
(March 14, 2013)
Information on Medical Card coverage, other health service schemes and food safety.
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Health
Expenditure and Outputs in the Irish Health System: A Cross Country Comparison
(October 1, 2012)
An analysis of the expenditure and outputs in the Irish health system and a comparison with other OECD countries. Ireland has the third highest expenditure in the OECD, and the report looks at whether the high level of spending corresponds to similarly high levels of output.
Categories : Health,Our Analysis
Future Health
(February 26, 2013)
Government’s proposed framework for reform of the health service, published in November 2012
Categories : External Analysis,Health
Health Expenditure Statistics
(March 14, 2013)
Includes break-down of non-capital and capital expenditure on health
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Health
Health Service Employment Statistics
(March 14, 2013)
A break-down of employment in the health service by role and location.
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Health
Health Status and Lifestyle
(March 14, 2013)
Contains a range of information on the health status of the Irish population, including self-reported health status and clinical data.
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Health
Healthy Life Years
(March 13, 2013)
At age 50 Irish men and women can expect to live more than 20 more years in good health
Categories : External Analysis,Health
HSE National Service Plan 2013
(February 26, 2013)
The National Service Plan 2013 sets out the type and volume of services to be delivered by the Executive in 2013
Categories : External Analysis,Health
Life Expectancy and Vital Statistics
(March 14, 2013)
Data on life expectancy, births, marriages and deaths, including age-standardised mortality rates
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Health
Population and Population Projections
(March 14, 2013)
Demographic data for Ireland, including projected population and projected dependency ratios.
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Health
Report of the Expert Group on Resource Allocation and Financing in the Health Sector
(February 26, 2013)
The 2010 Ruane Report examines the current system for allocating resources in the health system, and suggests substantial changes so that resources can better support health care principles and goals.
Categories : External Analysis,Health
Taxing Fat Is Unlikely To Make Us Thin.
(February 13, 2013)
A Fat Tax would be an inefficient and ineffective means of tackling obesity. It would come with a dramatically increased regulatory burden, and would hit the poorest hardest
Categories : Health,Our Analysis
The Money Should Follow The Patient’s Best Health Care
(February 26, 2013)
Presentation by Prof. Ruane on the Report of the Expert Group on Resource Allocation and Financing in the Health Sector.
Categories : Health,Presentations/Conference
Well-Being & Economic Conditions in Ireland
(December 1, 2011)
During the period 1975-2011, there was no increase in self-reported life satisfaction despite the secular improvement in living standards in Ireland. This paper explores how macroeconomic conditions have affected unemployment, inflation, real income as well as well-being and mental health.
The overall effect of higher unemployment in this current recession is weaker then previous years. And it is having a much smaller impact on the birth rate than the recession of the early 1980’s.
Categories : External Analysis,Health,Working Papers
Pension Reform
2010 Actuarial Review of The Social Insurance Fund
(September 20, 2012)
2010 Actuarial Review of the Social Insurance Fund - KPMG June 2010
Categories : External Analysis,Pension Reform
2011 Annual Report of the Pensions Board
(June 25, 2012)
2011 Annual Report of the Pensions Board
Categories : External Analysis,Pension Reform
Analysis Of Fiscal Incentives For Retirement Savings
(October 11, 2012)
This report presents an analysis of fiscal incentives for retirement savings – models and redistributive effects – in Ireland and comparison with other countries who have well established second pillar pension systems. Published in October 2012.
Categories : Our Analysis,Pension Reform,Research Reports
Fixing Our Broken Pensions - A Transforming Approach To Pensions Reform
(October 1, 2011)
This paper proposes the establishment of a statutory National Savings Fund (NSF) for supplementary pension provision. This would apply to all workers and wouldn’t differentiate between different types of economic status such as self-employed, farmers, private or public sector employees.
The proposal is designed to deal with the problems in the existing system.
These include the fact that pension coverage in the working population is too low with too many people likely to be dependent, either totally or in part, on the State Pension. Costs in the pension industry are too high. There is an unacceptable lack of transparency. Other problems include the reality that the funding of many pension schemes is inadequate and large public sector liabilities are unfunded. The different pension arrangements applying to people working in the public and private sectors are a source of social tension. In addition the current arrangements in respect of tax relief are in need of reform.
Categories : Our Analysis,Pension Reform,Policy Briefs
Informing Pension Reform
(April 1, 2011)
A module on the topic of pension coverage among workers aged 20-69 was included in the Quarterly National Household Survey in Q4 2009. This is a summary of the main findings.
Pension coverage for workers aged 20-69 was 54% in the first quarter of 2008. The rate for female workers was 50% and the rate for males was 56%. Irish nationals have a significantly higher rate of pension cover than Non-Irish nationals. The highest rate of pension cover is concentrated in the public administration and defence sector where more that nine in every ten workers have a pension. The hotels and restaurants sector continued to have the lowest rate of cover as less than one in four workers had a pension.
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Pension Reform
National Pensions Framework
(December 1, 2010)
The aim of the National Pensions Framework is to deliver security, equity, choice and clarity for the individual. It also aims to increase pension coverage, particularly among low to middle income groups and to ensure that State support for pensions is equitable and sustainable. This document was published in Dec 2010.
Categories : External Analysis,Pension Reform,Policy Briefs
Pension Charges In Ireland 2012
(October 24, 2012)
2012 Report on Pension Charges in Ireland from the Department of Social Protection.
Categories : External Analysis,Pension Reform
Pension Scheme Facts
(November 1, 2012)
Pension Schemes regulated by the Pension Board
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Pension Reform
Review of the Irish Pension System April 2013
(April 23, 2013)
Review of the Irish Pension System April 2013
Categories : External Analysis,Pension Reform
Review of the Irish Pension System Presentation April 2013
(April 24, 2013)
Presentation by Mr John Martin, Director for Employment, Labour and Social Affairs, OECD at Launch of OECD Review of the Irish Pension System, 22 April, 2013.
Categories : Other Documents,Pension Reform
Supplementary Pensions and the Income of Ireland's Retirees
(December 7, 2012)
The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing
Categories : External Analysis,Pension Reform
The Implications Of The UK Coalition Government's Reforms For Members Of The Public Service Pension Schemes
(October 26, 2012)
This paper examines the implications of the proposed reforms to the 4 largest UK public service pension schemes. These are The National Health Service, Teachers, Local Government and Civil Service schemes. It concludes that these reforms would reduce the value of pensions by more than one-third. It also compares the value of these schemes with average private sector schemes
Categories : External Analysis,Pension Reform
Who Saves For Retirement?
(December 1, 2011)
Research (published in Dec 2011) into participation of saving for retirement among employees in Britain finds that most saving is done through occupational schemes rather than personal pensions, and that patterns of occupational participation is driven by differences in eligibility.
Categories : External Analysis,Pension Reform,Working Papers
Property Tax
Commission On Taxation - Property Tax
(October 9, 2012)
2009 Commission on Taxation Report.
Categories : External Analysis,Property Tax
Design of a Local Property Tax
(December 6, 2012)
The report of the inter-departmental group on Property Tax design, chaired by Dr. Don Thornhill
Categories : External Analysis,Property Tax
Over €100 Million Received From 990,459 Households
(November 1, 2012)
Payment of Household Charges
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Property Tax
Possible Reforms of Real Estate Taxation: Criteria for Successful Policies
(November 8, 2012)
EU Commission,
Occasional paper 119, October 2012
Categories : External Analysis,Property Tax
Property Tax - Why Dubliners Should Pay More.
(January 19, 2013)
Some have complained that the residential property tax that will be applied in Ireland from 2013, which will be based on the market value of the property, will be unfair to Dubliners, because property values are higher there than elsewhere in Ireland. The value of the 298 properties sold in Dundrum, County Dublin are compared with the value of the 25 properties sold in Dundrum, County Tipperary, over the 2010-2012 period, using the Residential Property Price Register (RPPR). The median value (and associated full-year property tax in brackets) for Dundrum, County Tipperary are €100,001-150,000 (€225); the equivalent for Dundrum, County Dublin are €350,001-400,000 (€675); the median property owners in County Dublin will pay €450 more in annual property than their counterparts in County Tipperary. But the former have manifold advantages over the latter, including easy access to tax-payer subsidised infrastructure and services in: transport, culture, sports, education, health; and the widest range of life style possibilities, job options and entrepreneurial potential on the island. These benefits are reflected in property prices and therefore in property taxes; this is fair and appropriate. The timeliness and transparency of the property price evidence available on the RPPR is impressive, as is the quality and clarity of the background information and responses to ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ provided by the Revenue Commissioners. One weakness is that the price is not converted into price per M2. This gap should be corrected as a matter of urgency. The data, combined with the Revenue Commissioners’ ability to nudge us towards compliance with a variety of soft and hard measures, make it likely that most of us will comply.
Categories : Our Analysis,Property Tax
Property Tax: What Are The Options?
(December 4, 2012)
A quick summary of some of the issues and challenges relating to the design of a Property Tax.
Categories : Our Analysis,Property Tax
Submission To Inter-Departmental Group On Property Tax
(March 15, 2012)
Publicpolicy.ie's submitted proposal on how property tax might be assessed, administered, and paid.
Categories : Our Analysis,Property Tax
Tax Policy Reform & Economic Growth
(November 3, 2010)
The analysis suggests a tax and economic growth ranking order according to which corporate taxes are the most harmful type of tax for economic growth, followed by personal income taxes and then consumption taxes, with recurrent taxes on immovable property being the least harmful tax.
Categories : External Analysis,Property Tax
Tax Strategy Group Paper
(September 28, 2010)
Paper prepared for Tax Strategy Group on the taxation of property (2009).
Categories : External Analysis,Property Tax,Working Papers
The Local Property Tax
(March 14, 2013)
This report looks into the background to property taxation in Ireland and assesses why the introduction of such a tax is necessary at present. This report also describes how the Local Property Tax is calculated, how it is paid and possible benefits or drawbacks that may arise as a result.
Categories : Our Analysis,Property Tax
The New Property Tax.
(February 11, 2013)
The Government has announced the introduction of a residential property tax from 1 July, 2013 in place of the household charge. The new tax follows the Report of the Interdepartmental Group on Property Tax which has been published.
Categories : Our Analysis,Property Tax
Why Are Irish House Prices Still Falling?
(May 2, 2012)
This paper examines the continued fall in Irish house prices. The analysis suggests that house prices may have over corrected since 2010. Possible reasons for this decline are discussed.
Categories : External Analysis,Property Tax,Working Papers
Public Sector Reform
Airline Competition In Ireland - Back to Monopoly?
(February 6, 2013)
For any country, easy and efficient access to others is an important contributor to its economy and quality of life. It is particularly so when the country is an island with no land or rail links to major trading partners or potential tourists. In Ireland, this was recognised by earlier governments, who established and supported the establishment of State airline and shipping companies to ensure that such access was available. But these became State protected monopolies, with high costs and at times indifferent services. Some of us recall being frequent users of the Dublin to Brussels service offered by Aer Lingus in the 1970s and 80s, where flight availability was limited, and costs for a restricted economy ticket often fell in the range of €600-800 or even more.
Categories : Our Analysis,Public Sector Reform
An Assessment of the Draft Public Service Pay Agreement
(March 28, 2013)
The gap between current Government spending and revenue as measured by the General Government Deficit in 2012 was over €13 billion (8.2 % of GDP). We are committed to reducing this deficit under the EU Excessive Deficit Procedure to below 3 % by 2015. The pay and pensions bill accounts for 35 % of Government spending. If public sector pay and pensions were to be fully protected, the burden of adjustment would have to fall on non-pay current spending, capital spending or increases in taxation or some combination of these. While these items will have to bear a share of the necessary adjustment, putting the total burden of adjustment on these items would be either more economically damaging or socially regressive than putting some of the burden on pay and pensions. The proposed reductions in incomes over €65,000 are clearly progressive. However it is difficult to assess the impact of the reductions in overtime, premium pay and other allowances as the incidence of these will vary considerably in individual cases.
Categories : Our Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Analysis of Exchequer Pay and Pensions Bill 2007-2012
(March 11, 2013)
Analysis of Exchequer Pay and Pensions Bill 2007-2012
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Barriers To Outsourcing In the Public Sector
(February 11, 2013)
The present system of government accounting puts significant barriers in the way of achieving the optimum use of external service delivery.
Categories : Our Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Budget 2013 - University Collaboration - A Modest Proposal
(February 6, 2013)
Suggestions to merge Trinity College Dublin (TCD) and University College Dublin (UCD) have been rejected. But they should emulate the US precedent and provide the facility for students, both
undergraduate and graduate, to take courses for credit in each other’s programmes. This should be done across the board, with a minimum of bureaucracy and no fees transfer; the only requirements
would be that students meet the necessary pre-requisites to take the course(s) in question, and that there is classroom or other relevant capacity in the receiving institution. It would help make the
programmes of both universities more internationally competitive, and will encourage specialisation and scale in research; the whole will be more than the sum of the parts. The TCD-UCD Innovation Alliance and a few Higher Education Authority (HEA) bottom-up collaborative initiatives show promise, but to achieve serious economies of scale and scope, access should be universal. What is good enough for Harvard and MIT should be good enough for UCD and TCD.
Categories : Our Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Building A New Relationship With The Private Sector
(May 16, 2013)
A speech by the Secretary General of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, Mr.Robert Watt, as part of the Dublin Chamber of Commerce SMART series on Thursday May 16th, 2013.
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Design For Democracy
(January 1, 1986)
Many argue that change in our electoral system is necessary to improve the effectiveness of Government. This article (published in 1986) argues that more fundamental change is necessary and proposes the introduction of a separation of powers model.
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform,Working Papers
Dublin Bus : Funding and Financial Performance
(May 13, 2013)
Dublin Bus : Funding and Financial Performance
Categories : Our Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Implementation Body Website
(February 28, 2012)
This is the website of the Implementation Body established in July 2010 to oversee and verify progress in implementing the provisions of the Public Service Agreement, also known as the Croke Park Agreement.
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform,Research Reports
Implementing EU Directives: How to Avoid Costly Failures
(May 15, 2013)
Failure to implement EU Directives correctly and in time leads to significant costs. The most recent illustration of this is the Waterford Crystal pension’s case. We need to put a process in place to ensure that the transposition of Directives is done competently and in time.
Categories : Our Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Labour Relations Commission (LRC) Proposals for Public Service Agreement
(February 27, 2013)
The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform on the proposed successor to the Croke Park Agreement
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Public Sector Reform
New Targeted Voluntary Redundancy Scheme in Public Sector
(January 22, 2013)
New Targeted Voluntary Redundancy Scheme in Public Sector
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Presentation by Maureen Lynott, Chair of the Top Level Appointments Committee to Publicpolicy.ie on 11 September, 2012
(September 17, 2012)
Presentation by Maureen Lynott, Chair of the Top Level Appointments Committee to Publicpolicy.ie on 11 September, 2012
Categories : Our Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Progress Report on Implementation & Third Report of the Organisational Review Programme
(February 28, 2012)
The purpose of the Organisational Review Programme (ORP) is to help organisations ensure that they are fit for purpose in terms of the challenges they face. This is the first report and makes recommendations in relation to a number of Departments. Published in Feb 2012.
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Progress Report on Implementation of Government's Public Service Reform Plan. September 2012
(September 6, 2012)
"Progress Report on Implementation of Government's Public Service Reform Plan".
September 2012
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Public Sector Reform - Address by Paul Haran at the MacGill Summer School 2012
(August 21, 2012)
The attached speech on Public Sector Reform was delivered by Paul Haran former Secretary General of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment at the MacGill Summer School on 25 July, 2012
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Public Sector Reform - The Balance Sheet
(August 21, 2012)
The attached speech on Public Sector Reform was delivered by Robert Watt Secretary General of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform at the MacGill Summer School on 25 July, 2012
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Public Sector Reform -The Balance Sheet? A Paper by Robert Watt
(August 22, 2012)
The attached speech on Public Sector Reform was delivered by Robert Watt Secretary General of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform at the MacGill Summer School on 25 July, 2012
Categories : Presentations/Conference,Public Sector Reform
Public Sector Trends 2012
(November 23, 2012)
This Report issued by the Institute of Public Administration brings together Irish and international indicators on the size, efficiency and legitimacy of the public sector and institutions of State
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Public Service Pay & Numbers (2012)
(March 22, 2012)
Data on public service numbers, pay and pensions.
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Public Sector Reform
Putting People First - Local Government Reform Proposals
(October 22, 2012)
Putting People First - Local Government Reform Proposals
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Report on Penal Reform
(March 27, 2013)
Report of a sub-committee on penal reform recommending a ‘de-incarceration’ strategy that aims to reduce the prison population by one third over a ten year period
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform
Report on the Measurement of the Regulatory Burden Imposed on Business by Revenue
(August 22, 2012)
Report on the Measurement of the Regulatory Burden Imposed on Business by Revenue
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Public Sector Reform
Response Burden Barometer 2011
(August 24, 2012)
This report measures the burden of red tape CSO reporting requirements place on businesses. It is estimated that the burden fell by 28% between 2012 and 2011.
Categories : Fiscal Fact Sheets,Public Sector Reform
Running The Public Sector Better
(May 3, 2012)
This 2005 paper reviews the progress in public sector reform and proposes further some changes that are necessary. It highlights the need to modernise the financial accounting systems in the public sector.
Categories : Our Analysis,Presentations/Conference,Public Sector Reform
Second Progress Report Of The Implementation Body Public Service Agreement 2010-2014
(June 13, 2012)
The report sets out progress for the year ended March 2012.
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform,Research Reports
Strengthening The Capacity Of The Department Of Finance: Report Of The Independent Review Panel
(December 1, 2010)
A review of the Department of Finance’s policy advice and performance over the past 10 years with recommendations on how best the Department might adapt to meet the challenges of the future. Published in Dec 2010.
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform,Research Reports
The First Steps in Ireland’s Emerging Climate Strategy Assessed
(March 20, 2013)
The Irish government has published the draft heads of a climate bill. Because we won’t know the essence of what is proposed until we see the national and sectoral roadmaps that will follow, it is not possible to draw definitive conclusions as to the sense and effectiveness of what is proposed.
Categories : Our Analysis,Public Sector Reform
The ICE Report (1975)
(October 6, 2012)
The summary of a report into the form and function of the Inter Cert exam, now the Junior Cert. Released in 1975, but relevant for the current policy debate.
Categories : Our Analysis,Public Sector Reform,Research Reports
The Present System Of Government Accounting Is No Longer Fit For Purpose
(May 4, 2012)
“We have the most crude accounting tools. It's tragic because our accounts and our national arithmetic doesn't tell us the things that we need to know.†Susan George, American Activist.
Categories : Our Analysis,Public Sector Reform,Working Papers
The Public Sector Pay Gap
(December 1, 2011)
Investigation of the public-private wage differentials in ten euro area countries (Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain). Notable differences emerge across countries, with Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal and Spain exhibiting higher public sector premia than other countries. Published in Dec 2011.
Categories : External Analysis,Public Sector Reform,Research Reports
Water Policy
Fracking and Local Credibility in Ireland
(February 4, 2013)
When elected members of local authorities are faced with the possibility of a transformative development in their areas, they have two choices. They can initiate a process of becoming seriously informed of the technical, economic, social and environmental implications, engage on the basis of such information with key stakeholders and the general public, and then arrive at conclusions as to what the best way forward for their area is or they can grandstand with a rush to judgement.
Categories : Our Analysis,Water Policy
Invest In Cavan
(March 5, 2012)
We face serious challenges. Understanding the facts, and how the public interest is or is not served by the choices we face, is the critical first step towards protecting our economy, environment and social cohesion. And if you are looking for a place to invest, put Cavan on your short list.
Categories : Our Analysis,Water Policy,Working Papers
Irish Water: Phase 1 Report
(January 1, 2012)
Report recommends a public utility model for the provision of water services in Ireland. The new utility would have full responsibility for the water cycle from abstraction to waste water treatment and sludge disposal.
Categories : External Analysis,Research Reports,Water Policy
Meeting The Water Reform Challenge
(March 11, 2012)
This report provides Governments with practical advice and policy tools to pursue urgent reform in their water sectors. It examines three fundamental areas that need to be addressed: financing of the water sector; governance and institutional arrangements; and coherence between water policies and policies in place in other sectors of the economy.
Categories : External Analysis,Research Reports,Water Policy
Submission to Department of Environment on Water Policy
(March 15, 2012)
Publicpolicy.ie made a submission to the Department of the Environment on water policy. It makes seven recommendations, including support for metering.
Categories : Our Analysis,Policy Briefs,Water Policy
The Pros & Cons Of Various Schemes Of Charging For Water
(July 3, 2012)
This paper provides some evidence on the pros & cons of various schemes of charging for water
Categories : External Analysis,Water Policy
Water Charges: An Interim Scheme?
(February 13, 2013)
Under the EU/IMF Programme, Ireland is committed to start charging for water by the end of 2013. This documents outlines the case for these charges.
Categories : Our Analysis,Water Policy
Water for Poor People - Lessons from France & Belgium
(June 20, 2012)
Paper delivered by Dr Henri Smets at the Seminar on the 19th June.
Categories : External Analysis,Water Policy
Water for Poor People - The Case for Affordable Water
(February 6, 2013)
Henri Smets sets the international context for water pricing: “In all countries, it is now accepted that water users should pay to a very large extent for the water they use, and the amount of payment be proportionate to water consumption. The Irish model of free water for domestic users was hardly known to the rest of Europe, and did not inspire the policy of any country in Western Europe.”
Categories : Our Analysis,Water Policy