A World Class Statistical System for Ireland

Dr Patricia O’HaraChairperson National Statistics Board

What does the NSB Vision require?• More use of secondary sources – administrative data, Big Data, other

private data sources

• National Data Infrastructure (NDI) – widespread use of unique identifiers

• Importance of public sector data recognised in various government policy initiatives –> better policy, administration and services

• Application of common standards right across the public service

Realising the NSB Vision

• Strategic leadership and resources

• DPER and OGCIO

• Public Sector ICT Strategy

• CSO Coordination Role

• Irish Government Statistics Service

Some Key Challenges

• CSO Budget – role has been significantly expanded• New EU legislative framework – new role• Big data• New skills• Privacy and data protection• Responding to users by addressing gaps• Balancing national and European needs

Actions Needed – Leadership and Resources• Department of Public Expenditure and Reform as strategic leaders

• Data Sharing and Governance Legislation

• Government Chief Information Officer to oversee NDI

• CSO lead through coordination role

• Conviction and resources will determine success

What Will Success Deliver?

• Efficient use of existing data sources

• Broader range of statistics with greater granularity – benefits for decisions makers and citizens alike

• Consistency across the system

• Clarity on use of data collected

• Administrative efficiency and improved public services