Inquiry into the Performance and Culture of the Northern Ireland Civil Service - Call for Evidence

Overview

Since it was established in February 2024, the Committee for Finance has considered a wide range of information and data regarding a range of metrics with respect to the NI Civil Service. The Committee has engaged with the Department on this information and data, with Members seeking further extrapolation of this to allow the Committee to make suggestions as to how the NICS might improve its performance and support the evolution of its culture.

The Committee agreed to undertake this inquiry at its Strategic Planning Session on 22^nd October 2025, prompted by ongoing concerns about the performance and culture of the NICS. The Committee’s primary focus is on “People”, recognising that a modern, agile, and inclusive civil service is essential for the delivery of high-quality public services.

The Committee’s concerns include the current structures of the NICS, the capacity and capability of the NICS, the challenges of recruitment and retention, the reasons for high levels of sick absence and the extensive use of temporary promotion, the high number of vacant posts across the NICS, the impact of outdated or inconsistent HR practices and the need for a strategic approach to workforce planning and wellbeing.

You can find more information on the Inquiry here.