1. Developing a Research Agenda ACESA Conference 1 st and 2 nd October 2009

2. Rationale for Undertaking Research Better information for Committee and members Enhance capacity in communicating and negotiating with Finance and the various relevant bodies and committees Enhance credibility of ACESA

3. Research Topics suggested The performance dialogue – the relationship between government departments and state agencies, as exemplified by the development of a framework agreement and subsequent service agreements, and the process by which these agreements are developed and monitored. Accountability – as exemplified by chief executive, board and ministerial accountability arrangements. The roll out of output statements and associated performance indicators to all state bodies is an important dimension of new accountability developments. Board structures and processes – covering such issues as board size, appointments, composition and performance. Managing transformation and change programmes – learning lessons from other change programmes as to how best to advance implementation. Chief executive remuneration – addressing comparative information on pay and conditions.

4. Q1 The performance dialogue – the relationship between government departments and state agencies, as exemplified by the development of a framework agreement and subsequent service agreements, and the process by which these agreements are developed and monitored

5. Accountability – as exemplified by chief executive, board and ministerial accountability arrangements. The roll out of output statements and associated performance indicators to all state bodies is an important dimension of new accountability developments. Q2

6. Q3 Board structures and processes – covering such issues as board size, appointments, composition and performance..

7. Q4 Managing transformation and change programmes – learning lessons from other change programmes as to how best to advance implementation.

8. Q5 Chief Executive Remuneration – addressing comparative information on pay and conditions.

9. Are there other topics which you think we should consider? If so please jot them down here, with a very brief elaboration. Sharing services - developing models and best practice Shared Services / Shared Procurement - developing a model for increased efficiencies amongst public sector bodies. The areas likely to yield greatest results are ICT, HRM, Publications / Communications and Legal Services Best practice in public sector amalgamations How state agencies can influence public policy in a time of crisis Given the emergence from publication of the McCarthy Report of the likely increase in merger activity between State Agencies I would imagine early research and CEO guidance in respect of The Merger process for State Agencies - practical implementations / CEO guidance / best practice processes. Networking/lobbying - how should agencies conduct themselves, particularly in the context of political (opposition) contacts and more broadly. Need to look at the whole area of proactive sharing services / resources while at the same time protecting the integrity of individual organisations Leadership but probably covered by managing change....

10. Next Steps Already had proposal from IPA Have made contact with other bodies, UCD, UCC, UL Anticipate first topic being addressed before Christmas