Periodic Critial Review Support

Under the provision of the 2016 Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies ("the Code"), Government Departments must review each non-commercial State body under their aegis at least once every five years by conducting a Periodic Critical Review (PCR).  Trained in the PCR process, we can help you conduct a PCR or prepare for a PCR following the guidelines.

What is a PCR?

Under the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies, A Guide to Periodic Critical Review of Non-Commercial State Bodies (“the Guide”), the PCR presents an excellent opportunity for both the non-commercial State body and the Department to review and reflect on strategic and operational strengths and challenges. A PCR considers performance against the original mandate of the body and the changing external environment to identify the scope for improvement.

As outlined in section 8.14 of the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies, 2016, the overarching objective of the PCR process is primarily to secure improvements in accountability, efficiency and effectiveness and to scrutinise objectively the case for rationalisation and consolidation of non-commercial State bodies in light of changing requirements, demands and priorities.”

The Code of Practice also notes that a key part of the review will be “to assess the extent to which the governance structure of each public body and the Department’s oversight of that body (if appropriate) is consistent with its legislative underpinning and is strongly aligned to the business needs of the body.”

According to the Guide, “The key interface being tested in the PCR is the relationship between the original objectives and the results and impacts that are being achieved by the non-commercial State body. This is relevant to the first PCR objective, namely the ongoing relevance of the non-commercial State body. The identification of the inputs, activities and outputs is relevant to the second objective, as it allows for a means to assess whether this is being carried out in an effective manner.”

How we can help

We are experts in all key areas examined during a PCR, including Governance, Organisational Capacity, and Organisational Performance and Delivery. Our team has deep experience in stakeholder engagement, data analysis/synthesis and reporting. Whether you are a government department commissioning a PCR or a non-commercial semi-state organisation undergoing a PCR, we can support you through the process.