Better Public Services Conference: Evidence-Informed Policy and Services

Tá leagan Gaeilge den mhír seo ar fáil anseo.

(Paschal Donohoe TD, Minister for Public Expenditure National Development Plan Delivery and Reform of Ireland)

As we gather insights from the recent Better Public Services Conference: Evidence-Informed Policy and Services, it is clear that Open Data is more crucial than ever. This conference highlighted the importance of using data to drive policy and improve public services, emphasising the need for transparency, accountability, and innovation. By leveraging Open Data and demonstrating its impact, we can create a more informed and engaged society, paving the way for a brighter future.

Speaking at the Better Public Services Conference, Minister Donohoe said:

“One of the pieces of work that’s underway at a central level is the Department of Public Expenditure is all of the great work that’s underway with regard to Open Data and how we can harness the use of data that is publically available or available to the state to look at how we can deliver better public services.”

This echoes a further statement by Minister Donohoe at the launch of the second National Open Data Strategy in November 2023:

"Open Data is central in driving the delivery of better public services across Ireland. It provides a rich evidence base to inform decisions ensuring we are creating effective and inclusive services. Open data is also inherently transparent - this is key in creating accountable public bodies. Delivering more efficient public services that are fair and transparent builds trust in government which is fundamental for a healthy functioning democracy. Open Data is a vital component in this."

Open Data aims to ensure that more high quality datasets are published and made available in an accessible way for all. Open Data is also one of the building blocks of reform, as outlined in the Better Public Services - Public Service Transformation 2030 Strategy.

By showcasing the impact of Open Data, we can enhance trust in our institutions and empower citizens with access to information held by public bodies. Speaking at the Better Public Services conference, Elsa Pilichowski, Director for Public Governance at the OECD said:

“Ensuring that citizens have a voice will have a particularly large impact on trust levels.”

Ireland also consistently ranks high in the OECD OURdata Index having remained in the first Tier of countries in the 2023 results.

The Digitising Galway’s Graveyard Heritage project by Galway County Council, an Open Data Engagement Fund winner, demonstrates the transformative impact Open Data can have on a user and for researching historical family records. By involving citizens in preserving Galway’s graveyard heritage, this initiative has fostered greater trust in our institutions. The project provides free digital access to graveyard data, enabling users to easily find graveyards and memorial information held by Galway County Council.

Having access to research data also creates a strong impact in our society, it improves access and transparency. Ireland has developed the National Open Access Monitor, which is a collaborative project by the National Open Research Forum (NORF), Irish Research eLibrary (IReL), and OpenAIRE. The Monitor provides valuable insights into Ireland’s open science landscape and supports the shift toward a fully open access research ecosystem.

Open Data is a powerful catalyst for positive change. It enhances transparency and accountability, drives economic growth, and fosters innovation. By making data accessible, it improves public services, supports research, and addresses social issues more effectively. The benefits of Open Data extend beyond government efficiency, contributing to a more informed, engaged, and empowered society. As we continue to embrace Open Data, we unlock new opportunities for progress and collaboration, paving the way for a brighter future.