We must not be wedded to the old ways of Government - we are committed to a new, better and more innovative approach – McGuinness

It’s time for no more silo working but working across boundaries, organisations, groups and the wider community for the common good.

The deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness is pictured with Peter Doran, Law School, Queens University Belfast, Aideen McGinley co-chair of the Carnegie Roundtable on Measuring Wellbeing and Martyn Evans, Chief Executive of the Carnegie Trust.

That was the message from the deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness who attended the Carnegie Roundtable on Measuring Wellbeing at the Stormont Hotel, Belfast.

Membership of Carnegie Roundtable on Measuring wellbeing comprises representatives of the public sector, academia, business and community sectors.

Speaking at the event deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness said: “People want more and better jobs, investment in our health service, investment in our schools and support for those most in need in society. At a time of increased pressure on public finances, we need to be more creative, more holistic, if we are to make a real positive difference for society.  We must not be wedded to the old ways of Government and we are committed to a new, better and more innovative approach.

“The new Programme for Government framework, is a process that will focus the impact of finite resources. The new approach allows the Executive to take a joined up approach to these generational issues. It’s an approach supported by business, civic and community leaders who rightly demand their Executive delivers more for them. Government cannot work in isolation and this approach brings the broadest possible spectrum of people and organisations together to tackle issues head on.

“Like any coalition Government, there will be issues on which we will not agree. Compromises will have to be found, that’s mature and real politics. But coming from our different backgrounds and different perspectives, we are united in our determination to deliver for the community and build a better future for everyone. We will work in partnership with wider society to make the maximum possible impact for all the people regardless of whether they voted for us or not. No more silo working but working across boundaries, organisations, groups and the community for the common good."

The deputy First Minister concluded: “Only after we have engaged fully with wider society can we finalise the Programme for Government. This is about a new conversation, a conversation to shape our shared future. At the end of the consultation process, a detailed Programme for Government will be produced. It creates space to engage across Government and with others to develop new ways to tackling problems and aligns with the budget process so plans are affordable.

“We will work in partnership with wider society to make the biggest impact for all the people and I encourage everyone to respond to the consultation and make their voice heard before the Programme for Government consultation closes on 22 July.”

Roundtable Co-Chair Aideen McGinley, said: “We’re delighted that a year on from our report, the NI Executive is leading a new approach to governance. This has widespread support from the stakeholders and members of the public that we spoke to as part of our inquiry. We look forward to the new approach being the start of more conversations across all communities in Northern Ireland about what a better society should look like.”

Martyn Evans, Chief Executive of the Carnegie UK Trust and Co-Chair of the Roundtable, said: “In taking forward an outcomes based approach to governance, Northern Ireland is placing itself at the forefront of regions and countries that are taking a wellbeing focused approach to their work. Engaging with citizens about what is important to their wellbeing could be key to refreshing democratic engagement. Measuring outcomes will build greater trust in institutions in Northern Ireland.”

Notes to editors: 

1. Carnegie Roundtable on Measuring Wellbeing was established in 2013, with the endorsement of then Minister for DFP, Simon Hamilton MLA, and Chair of the DFP Assembly Committee, Daithi McKay MLA.
2. The Executive is seeking views on the draft Programme for Government Framework 2016-21.
3. Media enquiries to The Executive Office press office on 028 9037 8201. Out of office hours, please contact the duty press office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
4. Photographs from The Executive Office events can be viewed via Flickr.

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