The Public Spending Code: Key Evaluations, Revisions and Updates

In Ireland, all Public Bodies are required to comply with the requirements of the Public Spending Code.  The Code contains a range of evaluation tools, from Cost Benefit Analysis to Value for Money Reviews. These tools have a critical role to play if Public Bodies are to fully discharge their responsibilities of ensuring that the best possible value-for-money is obtained whenever public money is being spent or invested.

The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform regularly updates the Code to ensure that it continues to reflect current best practice in project appraisal and evaluation.

Over the past two years, revisions were announced with the publication of three Circulars:-

1. In July 2019, a Circular revised the central technical references and economic appraisal parameters for the Public Spending Code. (click here)
2. In December 2019, a second Circular notified Departments and Offices that the Public Spending Code (PSC) had been updated, in particular as it applies to capital expenditure; that the guidance in relation to Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) has also been updated; and that related guidance material and rules have been consolidated. (click here) 
3. In November 2021, a Circular setting out guidelines for an external assurance process for major public investment projects, as part of the Public Spending Code, was published. https://www.gov.ie/en/circular/9108b-252021-update-of-the-public-spending-code-guidelines-for-the-external-assurance-process-for-major-public-investment-projects/

In response to these updates, PAI’s panel of expert speakers will cover the evaluation tools through a blend of lectures, case-studies and question-and answer sessions.

At the end of the seminar, participants will have a good understanding of how the Public Spending Code should be applied in their workplace.