Madam, - Benchmarking is not the "something-for-nothing" package that Cliff Taylor describes (Opinion, August 20th). The process has already ended to the cross-sectoral public service pay links of which Mr Taylor and other commentators were so critical. It is conditional on very tight restrictions on industrial action in the public services.
The deal also commits public servants to co-operate with "normal ongoing change". And all this is before the verified implementation of detailed modernisation action plans.
Mr Taylor rubbished the action plans rather than bothering to explain their contents to your readers. Had he taken the time, he would see that they set out detailed changes that will improve efficiency and value for money with direct benefits to taxpayers. They include better customer service, stable industrial relations, extended opening hours, better performance management and changed recruitment procedures. And service users will be involved in monitoring and verifying progress on these before money changes hands. - Yours, etc.,
BERNARD HARBOR, Information Officer, IMPACT, Nerney's Court, Dublin 1.