IT Transform Programme
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2026.02.24
4.3 Deputy M.B. Andrews of St Helier North of the Minister for Social Security regarding the information technology Transform Programme in the Employment, Social Security and Housing Department. (OQ. 32/2026):
Will the Minister advise whether there were any issues identified with the delivery of the information technology Transform Programme in the Employment, Social Security and Housing Department; and if so, what problems were encountered?
Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central (The Minister for Social Security):
The Transform programme is still in the development phase, with its first major phase focusing on delivering the foundations of the technology platform and implementing income support and its related services. As with any large and complex I.T. (information technology) programme, issues and risks will arise during delivery. These are identified and reported through established governance arrangements, including regular risk and issues reviews, programme board reporting and independent assurance and, of course, escalation to the political oversight group when necessary.
- Deputy M.B. Andrews :
The reason why I am asking this question is because one source has alleged that the implementation has gone wrong and potentially it could be running into the cost of millions of pounds. I would like to know whether the Minister could confirm whether this is true or not.
Deputy L.V. Feltham :
This is a multi-million pound project already. It is a very complex project. If the Deputy has any concerns arising from any discussions he has had, I would appreciate it if he could have those in private with me.
- Deputy I. Gardiner of St. Helier North :
Can the Minister confirm if the programme remained within its original budget envelope and, if not, what is the gross from the expected budget?
[10:00]
Deputy L.V. Feltham :
I answered that question in the last sitting. We are operating within the anticipated budget.
- Deputy J. Renouf of St. Brelade :
Given the chequered history of I.T. projects in the Government sector, I think it is relevant for the Assembly to know whether the Minister is prepared to flag whether there are serious delivery issues, rather than those being the result of a confidential discussion between Deputy Andrews and the Minister. Whether we could hear whether there are any red flags that have currently been raised, or whether there are issues which may come to light in the future. Could we hear about them now?
Deputy L.V. Feltham :
I do not operate on gossip. If there were any issues, I am sure that they would be raised to the political oversight group, that is the correct governance procedure. I would be more than happy for my officers to share the risk registers, and the issues registers with the Public Accounts Committee. This is an operational matter and that would be the most appropriate way forward.