The official version of this document can be found via the PDF button.
The below content has been automatically generated from the original PDF and some formatting may have been lost, therefore it should not be relied upon to extract citations or propose amendments.
27
WQ.455/2019
WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE
MINISTER FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, TOURISM, SPORT AND CULTURE BY DEPUTY K.F. MOREL OF ST. LAWRENCE
ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON TUESDAY 22nd OCTOBER 2019
Question
Further to comments the Minister has previously made about consolidating economic functions into one department, separate from environment and infrastructure functions, will the Minister state what work he is currently undertaking on this matter; when he expects this change to take effect; and whether he anticipates any costs associated with this change?
Answer
In the Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel hearing of 17 September 2019 I indicated that economic functions may be consolidated into a new department. This is a shared wish of myself and the Minister for External Relations and it is supported by the Chief Minister and Chief Executive.
A consultation on Tier 3 positions within Growth Housing and Environment closed in August 2019 and the formal response, in accordance with organisational policy, is due in the next few weeks. Consultation feedback will be considered alongside the express wish of Ministers to combine the Economy and Partnerships function of the Growth, Housing and Environment department with the Financial Services and Digital Economy function of the Office of the Chief Executive. I expect this to require establishment of a new department, a fresh consultation and subsequent implementation.
Subject to organisational policy, I wish to see that new department in place by the end of quarter 1 of 2020 given the important economic programme that lies ahead. I will keep States Members informed of progress.
I do not anticipate any out-of-the-ordinary additional costs will be necessary to complete any changes beyond the normal HR time associated with consultation and negotiation with all relevant parties.