Department of Finance (Northern Ireland)

The Department of Finance (Northern Ireland) (often abbreviated to DoF) is a department of the Northern Ireland Executive. It plays a central role in managing Northern Ireland's public finances and contributing to the overall economic well-being of the region.

Its key responsibilities include:

• Budgeting and Financial Planning: The Department is responsible for preparing and managing the Northern Ireland budget, allocating resources across different government departments and ensuring value for money in public spending.
• Economic Policy: It contributes to the development and implementation of economic policy, working to promote economic growth, investment, and job creation in Northern Ireland.
• Public Sector Procurement: DoF oversees public sector procurement, ensuring that goods, services, and works are acquired efficiently, effectively, and in accordance with relevant regulations.
• Rating and Valuation: The Department is responsible for the rating system in Northern Ireland, which is a form of property tax used to fund local government services. It also maintains the valuation list used for rating purposes.
• Civil Service Reform: DoF often plays a role in driving reform and efficiency within the Northern Ireland Civil Service.
• Accountancy Advice: It provides professional accountancy advice and support to other government departments.

The Department of Finance is headed by a Minister of Finance, who is a member of the Northern Ireland Executive. The Department's headquarters are located in Belfast.