IPA National Conference 2010
Building Confidence and Trust in Public Administration
IPA National Conference
30 September 2010
AVIVA Stadium
Over the past decade trust in institutions generally has been eroded in Ireland. So too has trust and confidence in our system of public administration. Some argue that this is part of a general trend reflecting a loss of confidence that institutions and a centralised bureaucracy can provide the solutions to the challenges that face our society. From this
perspective building trust and confidence in public administration implies the need to emphasise more meaningful engagement with citizens about public policy, less centralised control and more local autonomy.
Others would argue that this loss of trust and confidence in public administration is primarily due to failures of governance and accountability. Concerns about the stewardship of public monies and, in some cases, poor audit and control arrangements, non-compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and lack of standards have created widespread cynicism and condemnation from the public at large. Public servants have also been the focus of criticism and blame in the context of the recent economic downturn.
The discussion and debate of these different perspectives is important. Not just to better our understanding of the nature of some of the problems that have arisen, but also, where criticism is valid, to identify what actions should be taken in the future through reform of public administration. At this time, there is a need to build trust and restore confidence in our public services and also to have a motivated public service workforce that is connected to the purpose of achieving public value on behalf of all our citizens. This years’ IPA National Conference will explore these key themes. Issued addressed
include:
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Values and ethical frameworks for public administration
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Public administration in the context of the wider system of political governance
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Accountability and trust
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Role of the public service in restoring competitiveness and confidence
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Public service performance
For further information contact or to request a brochure: Carolyn Gormley
57-61 Lansdowne Road
Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
Tel: +353 1 240 3600
Fax: +353 1 668 9135
Vergemount Hall,
Clonskeagh, Dublin 4
Tel: +353 1 240 3600
Fax: +353 1 269 8644
Registration no: 21087