As we prepare for the new Budget and upcoming projects, it is essential to reflect on this year’s budget, its achievements, successes, and challenges. The drive to do more is crucial, serving as a catalyst for the Public Administration to not only meet but exceed the expectations of Maltese citizens.

The 2024 Budget introduced 423 measures, a significant increase of 100 from the previous year. Alongside with the increase of measures, the implementation rate also rose, with the Public Administration achieving an ambitious 84% implementation rate for the 2024 Budget work programme, reflecting a 3% improvement over last year. This progress highlights the Public Administration’s commitment to continuous improvement and delivering better results each year. However, the true celebration lies not merely in these statistics but in the steadfast dedication to providing a better service to the Maltese public.

This year also marks an important milestone: the 10th anniversary of the Implementation Directorate within the Coordination and Implementation Division of the Office of the Prime Minister. This Directorate plays a pivotal role in the allocation, monitoring, and evaluation of government projects, particularly those which originate from the Budget. Through rigorous monthly oversight, we ensure accountability and transparency—core values that define the Public Service.

Positioned centrally within the governance framework, the Directorate coordinates the Public Service's efforts in delivering the budgetary measures, overseeing their journey from planning to completion. It is dedicated to ensuring that these measures are implemented efficiently, and effectively by adhering to reasonable timeframes and principles of good governance.

Innovation is key for the Public Service to stay relevant. In its 10th year, the Implementation Directorate is renewing its methodologies and systems to ensure better monitoring and coordination with all Ministries. This aims to improve outcomes and streamline efforts in project implementation. The upcoming launch of PROMPT (Projects Monitoring Platform), set to go live next year, will significantly bolster our ability to collect comprehensive data on project implementation, paving the way for evidence-based decision-making.

These changes are part of the Public Service’s efforts to renew and modernise itself, bringing it closer to the Maltese people. These strategies are designed to foster trust and drive not only a new image of the Public Service but also in substance.