Phase 1: Checklist for demand for policy and the three-pillar framework

The three-pillar framework can help guide us as we complete the tasks of this phase.

To do this, we need to consider and answer the following questions under each of the three pillars:

• is the issue based on clearly defined data and evidence?
• is the scope and the purpose of policy demand clearly defined?
• is there evidence of successful policy interventions on this policy area from other countries?
• are there international or comparative studies that provide additional insights into the policy?

• has the issue the policy demand intends to address been established?
• is there clarity about policy objectives required to effectively address the issue?
• is there clarity about wider environment considerations in which the issue and policy demand sit?
• has the potential timeframe for the policy intervention been set – think about whether it requires an immediate response or if it is more long-term?
• have the likely costs to address the problem been established? Is funding likely to be provided?
• does the policy need the cooperation of other government departments, agencies or external stakeholders to implement it? – if the answer is yes, does the proposed policy support or compete with their objectives and how might we address this?

• is the source of the demand credible, or is it questionable, such as a possible source of misinformation?
• is the demand legal or, if put in place, can we ensure its compatibility with domestic and/or international law?
• is the demand a requirement of EU legislation or the ruling of the European Court of Justice, which would incur penalties if Ireland failed to implement?
• is the demand compatible with the Programme for Government commitments in the relevant policy area?
• have reasonable efforts been made to make sure representation and inclusivity in stakeholder engagement? Are any voices missing from the process?

Once we have clarity on the above this will help us avoid unnecessary mistakes and make informed choices and recommendations about next steps in the policymaking process.