The Department of Finance has a central role in implementing Government policy, in particular the Programme for Government, and in advising and supporting the Minister for Finance and the Government on the economic and financial management of the State and the overall management and development of the public sector. In formulating this advice the Department is guided by its mission which is:

'To support the achievement of the Government’s economic and social objectives by promoting a sound, sustainable economic and budgetary environment, continuing improvements in the efficiency of public services, and an effective framework for financial services.'

Report of Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes Vol 1
Report of Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes Vol 2