Consultation on devolution of more fiscal powers

Overview

On 12^th March 2021, the Finance Minister, Conor Murphy MLA, announced the establishment of the Independent Fiscal Commission.

The Commission was established to carry out a comprehensive review of the case for increasing fiscal powers available to the Assembly. In line with the terms of reference, the Commission carried out research and put forward recommendations on powers to enhance the NI Assembly’s fiscal responsibilities and increase its ability to raise revenues to sustainably fund public services.

The Commission’s final report was published on 19^th May 2022, entitled ‘More fiscal devolution for Northern Ireland?’, and it made a total of 23 recommendations which provide a comprehensive framework for delivering enhanced fiscal powers here. The report also discusses the risks and rewards which devolution can bring, as well as considering some of the fiscal tools and approaches that can help manage those risks.

The Department is now considering the Commission’s report and as part of that, is now seeking formal stakeholder engagement on the recommendations made by the Commission, via this public consultation, in order to inform policy considerations and next steps that can be presented by an incoming Finance Minister to the Executive. This will likely be a long-term journey as it has been in Scotland and Wales.  Further fiscal devolution could undoubtedly have a meaningful impact for all citizens here and the Department intends to maintain engagement with stakeholders, both through this consultation, and as this work progresses.

• Consultation Document

Why your views matter

The Department welcomes responses to this consultation from all groups and individuals. The questions provided in this consultation are provided as a guide for any response, but the Department welcomes any views or comments on the subject.