Central Government Accounting Standards (CGAS)

As part of the modernisation of the Public Reporting and Accounting Framework, the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform has been developing accounting standards for the Irish Accounting framework, based on International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS). IPSAS have been developed by the IPSAS Board which is a division of the International Federation of Accountants.

A range of Central Government Accounting Standards (CGAS) are currently planned to be developed and implemented on a phased basis, with nine of the CGAS having been prioritised for initial implementation in 2024. The first nine standards being introduced will assist in bringing central Government’s Statements of Financial Position into line with international accounting standards.

The overall number of CGAS to be developed will change over the project as new standards are issued by IPSAS and existing standards amended/withdrawn.

The reporting boundary of the CGAS applies to all Government Departments, Offices (Votes), the National Training Fund and the Social Insurance Fund.

The implementation of the CGAS will formalise accrual accounting financial reporting alongside the existing cash accounting framework for Central Government Departments and Offices.

The updated financial statements, published within the Appropriation Account, will provide Departments and other stakeholders with a more comprehensive view of financial performance across Central Government and will continue to bring financial reporting of Departments and Offices in line with best practice and International Accounting Standards.