Policy implementation that falls short of expectations is a common occurrence in Northern Ireland. Executive Ministers and Senior Civil Servants may fail to show clear leadership and the NICS often lacks the right mix of skills. Concerns about risk and processes can overrule a focus on improving outcomes.

The structure of government discourages collaboration, monitoring processes are burdensome, and front-line expertise is undervalued. Periods of unstable or absent government make it even more difficult to make progress. All are major contributors to why policy goals may not be achieved, according to a new report from Pivotal, the independent think tank focused on Northern Ireland.

Based on 30 long-form interviews with former ministers, Senior Civil Servants, Special Advisors and more, this new report shines a light on the many reasons why local policy delivery often fails to achieve its aims. These conversations showed the importance of this issue, offering valuable insights and suggesting ideas for positive change.