21 July 2006
Finance Minister Tom McCabe has begun a series of talks which could lead to an complete overhaul of the way public services are delivered in Scotland.
The first of a round of consultations was held in Dundee this week, with the minister having private discussions with leading members of councils in the area and representatives of services users, businesses, health boards, community partnerships and other bodies.
The talks follow the recent publication of the Scottish Executive's consultation document Transforming public services, which sets out proposals for 'joined up' government involving councils, local enterprise companies and various quangos.
Labour is planning to include public service reform in its manifesto for the Scottish Parliament elections next year.
This could lead to the merger of council departments such as education, social work and environmental health across boundaries and a reduction in the number of top officials.
Discussions are already taking place with Stirling and Clackmannanshire councils on a 'joint delivery' plan that could result in a single management structure for both authorities. The prospect of one education department for the three Ayrshire councils is also being discussed.
McCabe, who has previously voiced concern about the high number of top officials, such as chief executives, for the size of the country, believes that the merger of council departments is the way forward, rather than a complete restructuring of local government.
An Executive spokesman said the 'dialogue event' in Dundee, and a separate visit to Tayside Police HQ, were to allow private discussions. Further events would be held over the coming months.
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