The Programme for Government contains commitments to set out legally the relationship between officials and Ministers, and to introduce new guidelines for officials’ accountability to Oireachtas Committees.  Civil service accountability encompasses such broad issues as constitutional authority of Ministers, statutory roles under the Public Service Management Act 1997 and the Ministers and Secretaries Acts, the provision of evidence to Oireachtas Committees and the culture and values of the Civil Service.  The Government Reform Unit in the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform is currently preparing a policy paper on civil service accountability which will examine the current legislative framework underpinning civil service accountability, as well as the current administrative accountability arrangements in place.  It will also explore the international practice and developments in this area.  To assist with this work, the Government Reform Unit has commenced a consultation process on these issues; this has initially included academics, civil servants, and international commentators.  This consultation process will now be broadened to include a more diverse mix of stakeholders.