O’Dowd unveils new website to enhance public understanding of Government expenditure

Finance Minister John O’Dowd has launched a new website aimed at helping the public better understand how government is funded.

Speaking at the Fiscal Council conference in Belfast the Minister said: “Transparent financial data enables a better public understanding of government expenditure, helping to build trust and accountability. I’m pleased therefore to launch a new website today which provides the public a clearer view of the cost of delivering public services here, and where their money goes.

“Good financial information is critical for

informing public debate and can support and guide the difficult decisions needed to manage a constrained budget and ultimately help shape a more sustainable future for all. The Fiscal Council have worked closely with departmental and NISRA colleagues on this important resource.

“More broadly, the Fiscal Council has also played a vital role in providing an independent examination of our public expenditure position and level of relative need, which has assisted my Department in making the case to Treasury for fairer funding for public services.

“Given the important role of the Fiscal Council, my Department is progressing legislation to establish the body on a statutory basis to underpin its work.

“We are now developing a Budget Improvement Plan, setting out both short- term and long-term actions to strengthen the budget-setting process which will help shape future budgets, ensuring resources are allocated transparently and effectively.

“This underscores our determination to make every pound count—focusing limited resources on what matters most, and advancing our vision of a fairer, more prosperous society."

NISRA Chief Executive Philip Wales added: “Today’s release helps to improve transparency around the public spending of Executive Departments: strengthening our understanding of our fiscal position.

“The new online resources present the information in a user-friendly and accessible format, making it easier for everyone to understand how government funding is used to deliver key public services.”