To undertake a comprehensive analysis of the position in relation to Partnerships in Northern Ireland by:
1. establishing the rationale for partnership working;
2. compiling an overall picture of what Partnerships are currently operating (to include those Partnerships with central government funding and/or membership);
3. examining the accountability, funding and composition of such partnerships. (A distinction will be drawn between administrative, programme and consultancy funding; and, as far as possible, the number of FTE staff involved in providing administrative support will also be determined);
4. clarifying the role of and what constitutes a partnership; and
5. considering partnership experience in NI and elsewhere, including the efficiency and effectiveness of present arrangements, along with relevant key documents produced and current thinking especially in relation to the emerging findings of the Review of Public Administration.
To submit to Ministers by the end of October/early November 2004 a draft paper on Partnerships in NI. It is intended that this paper will serve as a think piece and assist further detailed considerations.