USING technology, including artificial intelligence, will be “crucial” in curbing public spending, with States Members to be given an update on future savings proposals in February, the Chief Minister has said.
Deputy Lyndon Farnham said a new IT programme within the Employment, Social Security and Housing Department would save almost £1 million a year when it comes into force in 2028.
Responding to a question from Deputy Max Andrews about introducing a technical efficiencies programme, Deputy Farnham said: “The government have a number of programmes that will save money through the application of technology.
“Those programmes are part of this Council of Ministers’ drive to curb the growth in public services and they are being implemented alongside the recruitment restrictions and the reduction in the use of consultancy.”
He cited a “new IT platform” which will replace the current benefits management system within the ESSH Department which will “reduce costs and other expenditure by at least £950,000 per year” once the programme is completed in 2028.
“The application of technology including artificial intelligence will be crucial to reducing the unsustainable growth in our public service and I hope that States Members will join the government in February when we will present a blueprint of a proposal for future savings,” he added.
When asked by Deputy Andrews whether one efficiencies strategy should be implemented across the government, the Chief Minister said that would not be possible.
He said: “Having ‘one-plan-fits-all’ is a wonderful ideology but in practice it is much more complex than that. That is why we have chosen to implement programmes relevant to the departments with which they refer.
“I understand where the Deputy is coming from and want to reassure Members that this government is doing everything it can to drive future efficiencies and technology will be at the forefront of this moving forward.”
