HMT Communication Protocol
The protocol for relations with HMT, namely that the Northern Ireland Department of Finance must be the sole conduit of formal communication, should be reinforced and widely understood across the Northern Ireland Civil Service. The Department of Finance, for its part, must recognise that its unique relationship with HMT places on its officials a responsibility to be alert to, and act expeditiously upon, the requirements of all other Departments in matters relating to HMT; and to communicate clearly and effectively with those Departments as to HMT's position in respect of the spending Department's financial envelope.
- The NIAO Second Progress Report (October 2024) assessed this recommendation as Implemented, stating that the HM Treasury communication protocol had been reinforced, with the Department of Finance confirmed as sole conduit and operating as described (NIAO Second Progress Report, October 2024).
How was this evidence gathered?
Response
Accepted
Response
Accepted[Note: The NI Executive responded to recommendations 19-23, 29-33 together as a group under the 'Governance and Financial Controls' theme.] Accepted in full. Protocol for engagement with HMT issued. DoF keeps the information sharing and knowledge transfer protocols under review, engaging with HMT and departments on their effectiveness. Internal audit arrangements confirmed; reporting to boards established.
Progress Timeline
NIAO Second Progress Report (October 2024): Implemented. HM Treasury communication protocol reinforced. DoF confirmed as sole conduit and operating as described.