A Stakeholder Working Group (SWG) for the review of local authority Strategic Policy Committees

The Department took the opportunity to undertake an independent review of the operation of Strategic Policy Committees. A Stakeholder Working Group (SWG) was established to guide, advise and oversee the review. Secretariat support was provided by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. The IPA carried out the review and submitted a report to the SWG for its commentary.

The review included a process of research and consultation, an evaluation of existing arrangements, and a series of recommendations for adjustments to current arrangements.

The IPA’s final Report and the Stakeholder Working Group’s commentary on that report may be accessed below.

IPA Report on a Review of Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs)

Review and Report of Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) - Stakeholder Working Group Commentary

Revised SPC guidelines were published by the Department in June 2024, and are available below:

Corporate Policy Groups and Strategic Policy Committees - Revised Guidelines for Establishment and Operation (June 2024)

Stakeholder Working Group (SWG) for the review of local authority Strategic Policy Committees Meetings

The Stakeholder Working Group overseeing the review of local authority Strategic Policy Committees a "relevant body" as defined under the Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015. It complies with the provisions under the associated Transparency Code and is therefore exempted from the requirement to register and report on lobbying activities.