Statistical Cooperation Project between
National Bureau of Statistics of the Republic of Moldova
and Statistics Sweden
2013-2016
PROGRESS REPORT
April 2015 - March 2016
Progress report of the NBS/SCB Cooperation Project, covering the third year, April 2015 - March
2016
Project title:
Statistical Cooperation Project between the National Bureau of
Statistics (NBS) and Statistics Sweden (SCB)
Project funding:
Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida)
Partner(s):
National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and Statistics Sweden (SCB)
Authors:
NBS and SCB
Contents
1
RESULT SUMMARY ................................................................................................. 4
1.1
1.2
1.3
2
BACKGROUND ......................................................................................................... 4
KEY OVERALL PROGRESS ........................................................................................ 5
RESULTS OF THE REPORTING PERIOD IN BRIEF........................................................ 5
PROJECT REVIEW .................................................................................................... 7
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
A. MANAGEMENT AND HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ................................ 7
B. STATISTICAL METHODOLOGY ............................................................................ 9
C. EXTERNAL TRADE STATISTICS ......................................................................... 11
D. BUSINESS STATISTICS ...................................................................................... 13
E. ENVIRONMENT STATISTICS ............................................................................... 15
F. NATIONAL ACCOUNTS ...................................................................................... 19
3
UPDATED RISK ASSESSMENT ................................................................................. 21
4
CONCLUSIONS AND FURTHER WORK ..................................................................... 22
5
DONOR COORDINATION ....................................................................................... 22
6
COST SUMMARY................................................................................................... 23
Appendix 1: List of missions
Appendix 2: List of study visits
1 Result summary
1.1 Background
In April 2013 a cooperation project started between Statistics Sweden (SCB) and National
Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in the Republic of Moldova. The overall project objective is that
NBS has improved its institutional capacity to produce statistics aiming towards EU and
international standards.
The chosen support areas are linked to the overall Swedish Strategy for development
cooperation with Moldova. Economic statistics together with other sector statistics are
prerequisites for free and accessible information, necessary for the developing
mechanisms for transparency and accountability, and present opportunities to influence
decisions for a well-functioning and sustainable democracy.
In order to align more with current Result Based Management (RBM) practices the
project objective has been divided: one specifically targeting the technical/professional
objective; and one the organisational objective(s) of NBS:
Technical/professional objective
 Improved competence level of the staff at NBS to ensure production and
dissemination of reliable statistics.
Organisational objectives
 Overall functioning of NBS developed, including management and planning.
 Improved institutional competence, including policies, documentation and
standardization.
 Improved reputation and image of NBS in the Moldovan society.
There are six support components: Management and Human resource development;
Statistical Methodology; External trade statistics; Business statistics; Environment
statistics; and National accounts.
For each of the components, sub-components are defined. All activities are related to
these sub-components. For follow up and planning of the project a Result and Monitoring
Framework (RMF) matrix is used, together with a list of planned activities. These
documents are continuously revised in line with discussions in the Project Steering
Committee, performed each quarter during the project year.
This report covers progress and results during the period April 2015 to March 2016.
1.2 Key overall progress
For most parts in the project, progress in delivering outputs is good. There are some delays.
Further progress in regional statistics is linked to the EU funded project STATREG. New
demographic projections and a new master sample depend on progress on the Population
Census analysis. Progress in supporting development of IT-structure will be linked to a new
Public Administration Review program funded by EU. In spite of the delays the close
coordination and collaboration with other supporting activities is positive. There is also good
collaboration with other government authorities, supported through the project, by staff
from these authorities participating in project activities.
1.3 Results of the reporting period in brief
A. MANAGEMENT AND HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
Good progress has been made. Key short term results noted.
ACTIVITIES/OUTPUTS
Major achievements have been:

Quality Assurance Framework (QAF) and the process model according to Generic
Statistical Business Process Model (GSBPM) has been discussed in practice
through a study visit as well as in a mission.

Training in strategic planning and follow up, as well as in communication, have
been organized through two different courses.

An overview of current status of NBS IT-structure and software solutions has been
made.

A proposal for a revised statistical law has been developed and legislation in
another EU country discussed.

Design, structure and content for an Intranet at NBS developed by a workshop
and continued work with responsible staff.

Successful English training course, second round, (three levels) for 34 staff (March
to May 2015).
B. STATISTICAL METHODOLOGY
Good progress has been made. Some components have been delayed, in part due to slow
progress on the processing of the Population Census data.
ACTIVITIES/OUTPUTS

Statistics in Action, a course on individual statistics, with 25 participants.

Training in questionnaire design by a study visit to SCB.

Introductory course on conducting business surveys, with 20 participants.

Summer school on methodology in statistics
C. EXTERNAL TRADE STATISTICS
Although activities have been delayed, good progress has been made during the year. The
software installation and programming is on-going, and being tested.
ACTIVITIES/OUTPUTS


Data editing and data confidentiality were discussed in practice and a special
method for disclosure control was introduced.
Development of a new software for data collection and processing.
D. BUSINESS STATISTICS
Good progress has been made. The Structural Business Statistics team has demonstrated
high competence and ability to use the SCB (and EU project) support to develop products
in-house.
ACTIVITIES/OUTPUTS

Study visit on Investments and Innovations

Overview of current surveys on investments and proposals for future work
E. ENVIRONMENT STATISTICS
Good progress has been made. Work on environmental accounts has been delayed.
ACTIVITIES/OUTPUTS



Questionnaires for statistics on waste generation and water use in rural areas
discussed and developed.
Final questionnaire and methodology discussed for a survey on Environmental
Protection Expenditures (EPE).
Assessment of the national system of emissions to air.
F. NATIONAL ACCOUNTS
This Division has a heavy burden of responsibilities. Scheduling activities such as study
visits and missions to Moldova have been less shaped by the Results and Monitoring
Framework and more by the availability of the involved people within their annual work
plan.
ACTIVITIES/OUTPUTS



Assessment of current state, with possible sources for calculating regional GDP.
Follow-up mission with focus on how to treat R&D and military expenditures,
according to SNA 2008.
Study visit with an introduction to Financial accounts.
2 Project review
Green colour marks performed outputs.
2.1 A. Management and Human Resources Development
Component A.1
Capacity development in the areas of management, HRD and communications
Comp. objective
Improved quality and efficiency of statistical production processes in accordance with national and international requirements
Specific objectives
Improving management, planning, HRD and communications at NBS
Level
Indicator
Aspect
Baseline
Outcome
Number of web downloads relevant to the component
utility
not systemized
Q4
increasing
Outcome
A revised Statistics Law
effic/quality
Present Law
Q2
established
Outcome
A NBS unit for media, external and internal communication in operation
effic/quality
media only
Q2
established
Risk
Management dedication to re-org, availb. of enough staff for Intranet, funds
Risk mitigation
NBS management is committed. SCB and LTA will coordinate so that NBS resources are used in the most efficient way.
Output
Quality Assurance Framework for NBS published
non-existent
Q4
available
Output
Management directives related to planning, HRD and communication published
non-existent
Q4
Output
An Intranet in place
Q2
Output
5 staff trained on systems for external communication with users and stakeholder
none
not
systemized
available
available
2016
Q3
5 trained
Output
5 staff trained on QAF
no overall QAF
Q3 & Q4
5 trained
Output
15 managers trained on planning, RBM, HRD and communications
overall need
Q2 & Q3
15 trained
Output
15 managers trained on European Code of Practise
rather low
Q1 & Q4
Output
40 staff trained in English
low
Q1 & Q2
Output
5 staff trained on systems for internal communication
not systemized
Q1
5 trained
Output
NBS needs assessment published on conditions for implementing Intranet
non-existent
Q4
Published
Output
A road map for improvement of IT-structure at NBS
overall need
Output
3 staff trained on making a proposal for a revised statistical law
overall need
2.1.1 Management training
Almost all Heads of Departments and of Divisions attended at least
part of two courses. Very interactive, very instructive and innovative.
2013
2014
2015
2016
Target 2016
15 trained
Q1 & Q2
Q3
Q1 & Q2
40 trained
Q1
available
Q1
3 trained
All participants benefited in ways unique to themselves. Among
important lessons learned: time management, including the
understanding of how much staff time costs; team work, leading to
changes in how departments and divisions operate; communication,
particularly internally, as it opened participants up with each other,
but also in terms of providing a stronger motivation for pursuing the
issue of Intranet. Participants felt that the course had a definite impact
on how NBS operates on a daily basis, and expects that this effect will
grow with time.
2.1.2 English training
34 personnel participated in different classes based on existing English
language proficiency. 3 top managers received individual training.
This training is seen as extremely important and valuable. It also
improves the possibility to benefit from international projects,
participate in international conferences where interaction can expose
NBS to international best practice.
2.1.3 Quality assurance
A study visit showed QAF in action and applied at different stages in
statistics production processes. Seeing many specific examples was
very useful. A mission focused on one selected production process
in the NBS. Attention was given to the documentation of this
process and on the ultimate use and users of the product – this
raised awareness of NBS overall purpose, and also showed the need
to understand what actors and at what level quality issues must be
addressed. The Swedish system was compared with NBS current
system to allow an assessment of what is needed and what is
possible given current technology.
2.1.4 Statistical law
A mission by an external consultant reviewed the background and
current situation surrounding the legislation. The current law
incorporates the 20 UN principles that should be applicable in all
statistics legislation, but does not incorporate the EU Code of
Practice that will be a requirement under the Association
Agreement. This is a particular area for revision. Some training was
incorporated in the mission. Before and after the mission the NBS
itself worked on a draft of the revised legislation. Secondly a study
visit to the UK, among other things, included a thorough discussion
of the NBS latest draft. The current situation is that a latest draft
has been circulated to all concerned authorities and statistics users.
Feedback will be evaluated, revisions made as appropriate, a
follow-up mission held, after which the draft will be sent to
Parliament.
2.1.5 Internal communication and IT
IT infrastructure has been a neglected sphere within several
projects over several years. An EU PAR program will provide €2
million for procurement of IT infrastructure, a decision made
recently. The missions funded through the Swedish project will feed
productively into the processes within the PAR program. During a
mission in December 2015 SCB consultants arranged a workshop
where the needs for and the content of an Intranet at NBS were
discussed with 40 participants from head office as well as from
regional offices.
2.1.6 Communication with users and stakeholders
No activities in the period.
2.2 B. Statistical Methodology
Component B.1.
Survey methodology
Comp. objective
To improve the quality of statistics produced by NBS
Specific objectives
To improve statistical surveys
Level
Indicator
Outcome
Increased accuracy of estimates
Outcome
Number of quality improvement actions
Risk
Popl.&housing census 2014 time consuming, availability enough staff
Risk mitigation
SCB and LTA will coordinate so that NBS resources are used in the most efficient way
Output
Demographic projection has been made
Output
Seasonal adjustment has been made
Output
Aspect
2015
2016
vary
X
X
increasing
low knowledge
X
X
Increasing
non-existent
Q4
available
1 or 2
Q4
available
New Master sample is designed
non-existent
Q4
available
Output
Best estimators are used in business surveys
no analyses done
Q3
available
Output
Non response adjustment introduced in household surveys
only on PSU level
Q2
available
Output
A new sample design for SBS 2014
non-existent
Output
Improved questionnaires on statistical surveys
lack of knowledge
Q2
3 questionn.
Output
20 staff trained in data editing
0
Output
10 staff trained in non-sampling errors
0
Component B.2
Statistics competence
Comp. objective
To contribute to raising statistics competence in basic statistics and sampling theory
Specific objectives
Improved skills in statistics production and survey methodology using Current Best Methods in survey design
Level
Indicator
Outcome
Number of statistics produced in time and with good quality
Outcome
Number of surveys where quality has been improved
Risk
Lack of staff interest
Risk mitigation
NBS and LTA will assist so that NBS staff are being engaged
Output
Output
quality/effi
quality
Aspect
Baseline
Baseline
2013
2014
Q4
available
Q3
Q1 (20 staff)
2013
Target 2016
20 trained
Q3 (10 staff)
10 trained
2014
2015
2016
Target 2016
quality/effi
low
X
X
X
Increasing
quality
low
X
X
X
Increasing
Number of statistical products were new/revised methods are implemented
low
X
X
10 staff trained in sampling
0
Output
50 staff trained through STAC courses, household statistics
0
Output
25 staff trained through STAC course in economic statistics
0
Component B.3
Information structures
Comp.objective
To implement a metadata system for improved production of statistics and extend the use of administrative data
Specific objectives
To evaluate a metadata system that can be used for improved production of statistics and assess availabilityof administrative registers
Level
Indicator
Aspect
Baseline
Outcome
Indicator on extr.users satisfaction rating metadat available on internet
utility
low
Outcome
Number of statistics that meet national, EU, international reg. and standards
quality
low
2013
2014
X
Increasing
Q1 (4 staff)
10 trained
Q4 (25 staff)
Q3 (25 staff)
50 trained
Q4 (25 staff)
Q1 (25 staff)
25 trained
2015
2016
Target 2016
X
Increasing
Increasing
Outcome
A metadata system implemented
Outcome
Legislation that allows access to adminis data from Tax Authority and NSCI
Risk
No staff working with metadat, IT environment needs improvement
Risk mitigation
NBS is committed to improve metadata situation. SCB will introduce the metadata system Metaplus to meet the objectives
Risk
Availability of data sources, gov decision
Risk mitigation
Increased collaboration with relevant state agencies
Output
Administrative registers used in production
Low
Output
4 staff trained on MetaPlus
non-existent
2.2.1 B1. Survey methodology
A new master sample, originally scheduled for 2015 Q2, progress on
this is dependent on the Population Census. In the meantime, some
progress has been made in the sense that the Section has been
developing approaches and alternative strategies for creating a
Master sample, in case the Census analysis is delayed indefinitely.
Originally scheduled for Q4, a study visit on questionnaire design
was held in Q3 (September 2016).
2.2.2 B2. Statistics competence
A training mission was held in February 2016, on the subject of
sampling in practice. It was in the context of this training mission
that the design of a new master sample was held, with training in
the process of developing such a master sample.
A two parts course on Statistics in action (STAC) was held in 2015
Q1 and Q2 focusing on surveys of individuals. This was aimed at low
quality
quality
some exist
Q4
non-existent
Q1
Implemented
Available
Q2
increasing
Q3 (4 staff)
4 staff
and middle management and involved designing an individual
survey questionnaire. More technicians than managers attended.
But managers from the Methods Section attended with the purpose
of learning how to run the course. The Head of Section is now
confident that he can run this training in future if and when needed.
A two parts course on Conducting Business Surveys was held in Q4
2015 and Q1 2016. 20 participants learned about all steps in a
business survey.
2.2.3 B3. Information structures
The activity on metadata was scheduled for 2015 Q2. It has since
been re-scheduled to 2016 Q3. At present NBS uses the IMF’s
Special Data Dissemination Standard (SDSS) for publishing
metadata. MetaPlus is the software that Statistics Sweden uses for
metadata.
2.3 C. External Trade Statistics
Component C.1
Meeting EU requirements
Comp.objective
ETS comply to a greater extent with EU regulation and are more harmonized with EU standards
Specific objectives
ETS comply with EU reg. Adn are standardized with respect to nomenclatures, procedure codes and trade principles
Level
Indicator
outcome
Level of user satisfaction with ETS
outcome
Statistics on goods flow harmonized with EU requirements
outcome
All statistics on mode of transport broken down on country and commodities
Risk
Availability enough staff
Risk mitigation
output
Staff and work coordination
output
Component C.2
Customs procedure codes
Comp.objective
ETS comply to a greater extent with EU regulation and are more harmonized with EU standards
Specific objectives
EU procedure codes for covering flow of goods crossing borders are implemented in the statistics
Level
Indicator
outcome
Eurostat evaluation on the correct use of procedure codes in the statistics
quality/effiec
ES ev from 2012
outcome
Improved system in place between NBS andn MCA on handling procedure codes
quality/effiec
cooper. Exists
Risk
Customs collaboration
Risk mitigation
output
Engage customs in early stages
Procedure codes revised
most codes revised
Q4
available
output
5 staff from NBS and MCA trained on the interpretation of procedure codes
lack of knowledge
Q1 (5 staff)
5 staff trained
Component C.3
Data editing
Comp. objective
ETS comply to a greater extent with EU regulation and are more harmonized with EU standards
Specific objectives
Errors reduced and production time shortened with data editing
Level
Indicator
Aspect
Baseline
2014
2015
2016
outcome
Production time reduced by 30%
effiency
42 days
X
X
Q3
outcome
New application for data editing implemented and evaluated
quality
non-existent
Q4 first vers
Risk
Application delayed
Risk mitigation
output
More resources allocated
output
3 staff trained on the new application for data editing
0
output
3 staff trained on the EU validation handbook in relevant parts
0
Aspect
utility
quality/effienc
Baseline
2013
2014
2015
increasing
most statistics harmonized
X
Increasing
Q4 on web
continuous
X
X
ET Manuals updated according to EU reg.
Not updated
X
X
5 staff trained on EU regulations
0
Error reduction down with 50% (e.g. 2%-1%)
Aspect
Target 2016
X
exists not dissemint to public
range
2016
not systemized
Baseline
2013
to be identified
2014
Q4
2013
2015
X
Q4
Available
Q2 (5 staff)
5 staff trained
2016
Target 2016
Q4 Inter. ev.
Completed
X
Increasing
Target 2016
30%
Implemented
X
Q2 (3 staff)
X
Increasing
Q4 (3 staff)
3 staff trained
3 staff trained
Component C.4
Data confidentiality
Comp. objective
Specific objectives
ETS comply to a greater extent with EU regulation and are more harmonized with EU standards
More data avilable through the NBS website while preserving data confidentiality
Level
Indicator
Aspect
Baseline
2014
2015
2016
Target 2016
outcome
Production time reduced by 20%
effiency
42 days
X
X
Q4
20% reduction
outcome
Number of detailed statistics published on the website increased with 10%
quality/range
Unclear
X
X
Q4
10% increase
Risk
Application delayed
Risk mitigation
output
More resources allocated
X
X
Q4 down 20%
Increasing
output
3 staff trained on new ET application for data processing
Q4 (3 staff)
3 staff trained
output
3 staff trained onspecific methods and routines for passive confidentiality acc. EU reg
Component C.5
External trade in services
Comp. objective
ETS comply to a greater extent with EU regulation and are more harmonized with EU standards
Specific objectives
Adaption to the EU manual for external trade services
Level
Indicator
outcome
Level of user satisfaction with manual
Risk
User interest, availability of staff, data source available
Risk mitigation
output
Information, coordination
New and improved instructions to companies available
non-existent
output
3 staff trained on the interpretation of the EU manual
non-existent
Manual data checking decreased with 20%
2.3.1 C1. Meeting EU requirements
No activities in the period. A mission was planned to occur in 2016
Q1 (March), but will be postponed because of SCB’s inability to
provide expertise at that time.
2013
varying
0
some knowledge
Aspect
quality/utility
Baseline
Q2 (3 staff)
2013
2014
2015
National Bank only user
3 staff trained
2016
Target 2016
X
Increasing
Q2
Q3 (3 staff)
Available
3 staff trained
Originally scheduled for 2014 Q4, a mission in data editing occurred
in 2015 Q2. Apart from its own staff, a member of the Methods
Section also participated in the training mission.
2.3.4 C4. Data confidentiality
No activities in the period.
Also originally scheduled for 2014 Q4 this activity was combined
with the data editing mission and held in 2015 Q2.
2.3.3 C3. Data editing
2.3.5 C5. External trade in services
2.3.2 C2. Customer procedure codes
A study trip to Hungary’s Central Statistics Office was held
September-October. Focus here was on the process of transition
from the old system to the EUROSTAT standards. Material
developed in Hungary for their purposes was brought back and
translated to Russian and Rumanian. It will form a base for further
work by NBS as the organisation follows a similar path to Hungary’s.
2.4 D. Business Statistics
Component D.1
Harmonize annual business statistics
Comp. objective
Specific objectives
To harmonize annual business statistics and produce in compliance with NACE Rev 2
Annual structural business statistics in compliance with NACE Rev 2
Level
outcome
Indicator
SBS applied (Nace rev 2) and level of user satisfaction
outcome
Risk
Statistics published regarding the 2013 survey
IT-application delay
Risk mitigation
output
Aspect
efficiency/utility
Baseline
low
2013
2014
2015
2016
X
Target 2016
Increasing
low
Q4
Concluded
More resources allocated
Business Register recoded to NACE Rev 2
non-existent
Q1
Available
output
output
All SBS data for 2013 elaborated according to NACE Rev 2
5 staff trained on NACE Rev 2
non-existent
unsatisfactory
Q4
Q1
Available
5 staff trained
Component D.2
Business services and wholesale trade
Comp. objective
Specific objectives
To harmonize annual business statistics and produce in compliance with NACE Rev 2
To introduce annual turnover surveys on business statistics and wholesale trade in compliance with NACE Rev 2
Level
outcome
Indicator
Annual quality turnover statistics are produced
Risk
Risk
output
output
Management support
Information
Component D.3
Regional statistics
Comp. objective
To harmonize annual business statistics and produce in compliance with NACE Rev 2
Specific objectives
To produce regional structural business staistics as required by National Accounts
Level
outcome
Indicator
Web downloads of timely published regional business statistics
Aspect
utility
Baseline
not systemized
outcome
Risk
Number of statistical indicators on regional level
Management support needed, IT application, enough staff
range
only legal unit
Risk mitigation
output
NBS coordination and coordination with STATREG
Number of regional indicators included
quality
Aspect
efficiency/utility
Number of statistics disseminated
Annual surveys designed
Baseline
non-existent
2013
2014
non-existent
non-existent
low
2015
2016
X
Target 2016
Increasing
x
Increasing
Increasing
2016
X
Target 2016
Increasing
X
Increasing
Q4
included
Q4
2013
2014
2015
output
output
5 economic regions complete in the Business Register
0
Q4
Completed
4 staff trained on development of regional statistics
0
Q4 (4 staff)
4 staff trained
Component D.4
Investment statistics
Comp. objective
To produce business statistics in line with EU and national requirements
Specific objectives
To produce annula and quarterly investment statistics with increased quality (SBS and STS)
Level
Indicator
Aspect
Baseline
2016
Target 2016
outcome
Web downloads of (timely) published investment statistics
utility
Low
outcome
Methodology regarding gross and net investment statistics are being used
quality/effc
Low
Risk
Management support lacking
Risk mitigation
output
Information and coordination
output
Number of indicators on annual and quarterly investment statistics compiled
3 staff trained in harmonized investment statistics
Component D.5
Innovation statistics
Comp. objective
Specific objectives
To produce business statistics in line with EU and national requirements
To produce statistics and indices on innovations
Level
outcome
Indicator
Web downloads of relevant statistics
outcome
Risk
Standard methodology for innovations statistics is used
Management support lacking
Risk mitigation
output
output
Information and coordination
output
2013
2014
2015
Q2
Lack knowledge
0
Aspect
utility
quality/effici
Baseline
not systemized
X
Increasing
X
In operation
Q4
Available
3 staff trained
2016
X
Target 2016
Increasing
X
In place
Q2&Q4 (3 staff)
2013
2014
2015
Low
Number of statistical indicators on innovations
Lack of knowledge
Q3
Available
Questionnaire formed together with a pilot study
3 staff trained on innovation statistics
non-existent
Lack of knowledge
Q2
Q1 (3 staff)
3 staff trained
2.4.1 D1. Harmonise annual business statistics
NACE rev 2 is fully adopted for structural business statistics.
2.4.2 D2. Business services and whole sale trade
This entire sub-component has been dropped because it is not
pertinent any longer to the process of alignment to EUROSTAT.
2.4.3 D3. Regional statistics
Regional data has been compiled based on local unit data, into two
“regional” levels: 35 administrative regions and 5 economic regions.
Q2 (3 staff)
Further work on the subcomponent and the closely linked Gross
Regional Product subcomponent will be held in abeyance pending
further information from, and coordination with, the EU’s STATREG
project.
2.4.4 D4. Investments statistics
A study visit was made to Sweden in April 2015. This combined a
review of SCB’s approach to both investment and innovation
statistics. Following the study visit, work was done by the NBS using
the EUROSTAT approach to definitions, indicators, survey
questionnaires. This work was further supported by a mission about
investments in November 2015. Investment statistics are gathered
in the Structural Business Survey, and there are overlaps between
this and the Annual Investments Survey. As result further
discussions are necessary to compile the investments survey
efficiency.
2.4.5 D5. Innovation statistics
The study visit to Sweden was done jointly with the investment subcomponent. After the visit, the staff used the EUROSTAT approach
to defining innovation, selecting indicators, setting standards, and
preparing survey questionnaires. The follow-up mission has not
materialised, and will not be carried out in this reporting period due
to SCB’s failure to identify suitable and available expertise. This
mission is therefore postponed to the next reporting period.
A major issue for actual implementation of these additional
business statistical products is the need for an up-dated IT system,
and in particular, appropriate software. Excellent progress has been
made on preparatory work, but delays will be experienced during
implementation. The view expressed was that actual field data
collection will not be done during 2016.
2.5 E. Environment statistics
Component E.1
Environmental protection expenditure
Comp. objective
NBS produces env statistics in accordance with EU regulations and internat conventiosn annually
Specific objectives
To provide users wuth timely information on exxpenditures related to env. Protection
Level
Indicator
Aspect
Baseline
2013
2014
2015
2016
Target 2016
outcome
Web downloads of relevant statistics
outcome
Methodology tests
Utility
non-existent
X
Increasing
unsatisfactory
X
Risk
MoE participation, enough staff available
Increasing
Risk mitigation
output
Increased collaboration with relevant state agencies
output
Necessary information sources and new research implemented
unsatisfactory
X
Increasing
Environmental expenditure data published
unsatisfactory
X
output
3 staff trained on relevant methodology
0
Available
output
3 staff trained on env. protection expenditures
0
Component E.2
Water statistics
Comp. objective
NBS produces env statistics in accordance with EU regulations and internat conventiosn annually
Specific objectives
To provide users with timely information on water abstraction and use
Level
Indicator
Aspect
Baseline
outcome
Info on water abstraction and use available in different dissemination formats
range
unsatisfactory
outcome
Calculations of indicators agreed with specialists from MoEnv
Risk
MoE contribution, Government, enough staff available
Risk mitigation
output
Increased collaboration with relevant state agencies
New survey on water in use in rural areas
output
Improved survey on water use in the communal sector
output
4 staff trained on water abstraction and use
Component E.3
Waste statistics
Comp. objective
NBS produces env statistics in accordance with EU regulations and internat conventiosn annually
Specific objectives
To assess waste generation and treatment in urban and rural areas
Level
Indicator
Aspect
Baseline
outcome
Info on waste generation and treatment available in diff dissemination formats
range
Unsatisfactory
outcome
Calculations of indicators agreed with specialists from MoEnv
start-up
Risk
MoE contribution, Government, enough staff available
Risk mitigation
output
Increased collaboration with relevant state agencies
output
3 staff trained on assessment on waste generation and treatment
Component E.4
Emissions to air
Comp. objective
NBS produces env statistics in accordance with EU regulations and internat conventiosn annually
Specific objectives
To assess current situation and prepare for a National System
Level
Indicator
Aspect
Baseline
2016
Target 2016
outcome
Info on emissions to air avilable in different dissemination formats
range
non-existent
X
Increasing
outcome
Calculations of indicators agreed with with specialists from MoEnv
quality/effic
start up
X
Increasing
quality/effic
quality/effic
Q2
2013
2014
Pilot survey on waste generation and treatment implemented
3 trained
2016
Target 2016
X
Increasing
X
In place
non-existent
X
Available
unsatisfactory
X
Available
Q2 (4 staff)
Q2 (4 staff)
4 trained
2015
2016
Target 2016
X
Increasing
X
Increasing
X
Concluded
start-up
2015
Q4
0
quality/effic
3 trained
Q4 (3 staff)
2013
2014
non-existent
0
2013
Q4 (4 staff)
Q2 (4 staff)
2014
2015
3 trained
Risk
MoE contribution, Government, enough staff available
Risk mitigation
output
Increased collaboration with relevant state agencies
output
4 staff trained/committed to emissions to air
Component E.5
Environmental accounts
Comp. objective
NBS produces env statistics in accordance with EU regulations and internat conventiosn annually
Specific objectives
to assess availiability, quality and level of detail on environmental taxes and subventions in the NA
Level
Indicator
outcome
Action plan coord. with MoEnv to establish indicator for env taxes and subsidies
non-existent
outcome
NBS Draft action plan for establishing an indicator for env taxes and subsidies
non-existent
Risk
MoE contribution, NA contribution, Government, enough staff available
Risk mitigation
output
Increased collaboration with relevant state agencies
output
3 staff trained/committed to env accounts
Estimates prepared on emissions from households and other required sectors
List of data available from National Accounts
Unsatisfactory
0
Aspect
Baseline
2013
non-existent
0
2014
2015
X
Available
Q1 (4 staff)
4 trained
2016
Target 2016
Q4
Available
Q4
Available
Q3
Available
Q2,Q3 (3 staff)
3 trained
2.5.1 E1. Environmental protection expenditure
In Q3 a mission was conducted as a follow-up to an earlier training
mission (2014 Q4). This involved finalizing a new questionnaire that
the Section had been working on, with instructions for data
collection, validation, estimation/calculation for a proposed pilot
survey. This pilot is now looking for finance. Ministry of
Environment was involved in this mission.
2.5.2 E2. Water statistics
Part of a mission on waste involved a focus on water extraction, use
and consumption, in rural areas. It also involved designing a survey
questionnaire. As some data is acquired through the household
budget survey two members of social statistics division were
involved.
2.5.3 E3. Waste statistics
This mission, a follow-up on an earlier one held in the previous
reporting period, was combined with the above-described water
statistics mission about collecting data for rural areas.
2.5.4 E4. Emissions to air
A mission was conducted to assess the current situation on air
emission statistics, and to start work on a national system. It was
discovered that there already is a national system designed by the
Ministry of Environment’s Climate Change Office (CCO), using NBS
data. Although no staff members from MoEnv. attended the
training in this mission, a day was spent at the CCO. Emissions
statistics on energy consumption in households will be derived from
improved data collected through the household budget survey.
2.5.5 E5. Environmental accounts
The 2014-15 annual report showed this activity was planned for
2015 Q4. The latest plan shows it scheduled to 2016 Q2 (study
visit)/Q3 (Mission).
2.6 F. National Accounts
Component F.1
SNA 2008
Comp. objective
More complete system on National Accounts aligned with SNA 2008
Specific objectives
Expenditures on R&D and military and NMB production volume introduced into accounts to the SNA 2008
Level
Indicator
Aspect
Baseline
outcome
Web downloads of relevant statistics
utility
none
outcome
Macro ec. Indicators compiled in accordance with SNA 2008
Risk
Possible time constraint within project period, lack of Human Resources
Risk mitigation
output
SCB and LTA will coordinate so that NBS resources used in the most efficient manner
output
Database created for indc.expend. on R&D, military, NB production volume
output
Macro ec. Indicators updated in accordance with SNA 2008
output
7 staff trained on methodological changes in SNA 2008 compared with 1993
Component F.2
Regional GDP
GDP indicat. for expenditure on R&D, military, NB production volume produced
Comp. objective
NBS produces Regional GDP
Specific objectives
Regional GRP produced in according with SNA 2008
Level
Indicator
outcome
Gross Regional Products according to economic areas with GDP
outcome
Prices on Gross Regional Products
Risk
Possible time constraint within project period, lack of Human Resources
Risk mitigation
output
SCB and LTA will coordinate so that NBS resources used in the most efficient manner
output
output
Documented selection of methods for calculating GRP
output
5 staff trained in GRP production
Component F.3
Financial accounts
Comp. objective
NBS produces Financial Accounts
2013
2014
2015
0
0
non-existent
2016
Target 2016
X
Increasing
X
Increasing
Q1
Increasing
Q4
Increasing
X
Available
Q1 (7 staff)
Aspect
Baseline
2013
2014
2015
7 trained
2016
Target 2016
quality/range
non-existent
X
Increasing
quality
non-existent
X
Increasing
Database available on GRP
non-existent
Q4
Increasing
Report on existing data sources on regional GDP
non-existent
Q4
Available
Q4
Available
Q2 (5 staff)
Q4 (5 staff)
5 trained
2015
non-existent
0
Specific objectives
Financial accounts produced in accordance with SNA 2008
Level
Indicator
2016
Target 2016
outcome
Web downloads of relevant statistics
utility
non-existent
X
Increasing
outcome
Indicators of FA and financial instruments developed
quality
very low
X
Increasing
Risk
Possible time constraint within project period, lack of Human Resources
Risk mitigation
output
SCB and LTA will coordinate so that NBS resources used in the most efficient manner
Increasing
Realised 2018
Database available on FA
Aspect
Baseline
non-existent
2013
2014
output
Report on existing data sources for FA
output
Guidelines dev. on the methodology for calculating FA according to country conditions
output
5 staff trained on FA methods
non-existent
Q3
Available
non-existent
Q3
Available
0
Q1 (5 staff)
5 trained
2.6.3 F3. Financial Accounts
2.6.1 F1. SNA 2008
A mission on System for National Accounts 2008 (SNA 2008) was
originally scheduled for the second quarter of 2015. But it was
actually held in the first quarter – i.e. before the current reporting
period. A follow-up mission was held in January 2016, having been
postponed from December 2015. 7 staff have been trained.
2.6.2 F2. Regional GDP
A mission was held in April 2015 in fulfilment of this planned
activity. The regional work done by the Structural Business Division
feeds into National Accounts. Apart from an “experimental”
exercise producing material for 2013-14 there is no plan at present
for further work to be done in this sub-component, since there is an
overlap with the EU STATREG project.
This activity was originally scheduled for 2016 Q2. It has been
moved forward to 2016 Q1, that is, into this reporting period. The
visit was made in February. Because of the close collaboration
between the Central Bank and NBS in this field, a representative of
the Bank participated in the study visit. 3 NBS specialists and one
interpreter attended. It should be added here that the NBS and the
Central Bank are currently negotiating a Memorandum of
Understanding regarding their collaboration.
3 Updated risk assessment
Identified risk with
potential effect on
achievement of
objectives
Lack of staff at NBS
Potential effect on
achievement of
objectives
(major, moderate,
minor)
Major:
Lack of staff would
prevent progress in
the subject matter
areas.
Major:
NBS less able to
engage in project
implementation
Likelihood that the
event will occur
(low, medium, high)
SCB risk mitigation
and/or risk reduction
Preparedness for
flexibility in technical
assistance.
External risk and difficult
to mitigate.
Overlapping with
other projects
Major:
NBS less able to
engage in project
implementation.
Insufficient budget
for NBS
Major:
NBS less able to
engage in project
implementation.
High:
Private sector offers
better salary, with
staff shortage at NBS
as a result.
Medium:
Experts at SCB in
some cases busy with
ordinary work as well
as in other ICOmissions.
Medium:
Overlapping with
other supporting
projects limits
availability of NBS
staff.
Medium:
Uncertainty about
changes in budget
allocation.
Political situation in
Moldova,
Major:
If renewed political
instability occur in
Moldova, the
project can be
affected.
Medium:
The political situation
in Moldova is
presently favourable,
but with uncertain
mandate.
Lack of short- term
consultants at SCB
SCB procures services
from consultants (outside
SCB) who can be brought
in if needed.
Continuous contact and
networking with other
cooperation partners.
Close cooperation
between SCB and NBS
that enables flexibility.
4 Conclusions and further work
The third year of the cooperation project between SCB and NBS has been successful in all
component areas. Some delays have occurred due to lack of time for experts from SCB as well as
shortage of personnel at NBS, but major progress has still been noted.
With focus on planning, together with contact and networking with other cooperation partners,
continues progress in all component areas can be achieved in the on-going cooperation project.
During the reporting period the staff at Statistical Methods section at NBS has been reduced.
Since this section is important for NBS in the improvement and change of the statistical
production, into the use of more sample surveys, this reduction in personnel can affect the
project. Focus on development of statistical methodology will reduce burden on respondents and
save time in the collecting, processing and editing of statistical data.
According to recommendations from the latest monitoring of the project, in February 2016, the
Result and Monitoring Framework (RMF) matrix needs to be revised.
5 Donor coordination
Coordination between all donors are prioritised, both in formal and informal ways. NBS
and Statistics Sweden aligns with these efforts and will actively promote donor
cooperation on all levels.
During reporting period coordination of activities have been discussed between SCB,
UNDP and the EU-funded project Statreg. Representatives from each project have met
regularly and also participated as observers in steering meetings arranged by each
supporting partner and NBS.
6 Cost Summary
The current budget, in total SEK 21 261 000, is divided between fees, reimbursable and
assignment costs, where fees are SEK 11 410 000, reimbursable costs are SEK 3 956 000
and assignment cost are 4 460 000. The budget contains provision for contingencies costs
adding up to SEK 1 435 000.
The accumulated cost on 31 December 2015 amounts to SEK 12 013 137 which implies
about 57 percent of the budget consumed at this point of time.
The activities planned for the period up to 31 December 2015 were not all implemented,
since there were some delays. A no cost extension of project period until December 2017
is thus requested.
1
Item
Fees
2
3
4
Budget in main Contract
Accumulated costs
Balance
2013-03-01
2015-12-31
11 410 000
9 078 620
2 331 380
Reimbursables
3 956 000
1 377 616
2 578 384
Assignment Costs
4 460 000
1 556 901
2 903 099
Contingencies
1 435 000
0
1 435 000
21 261 000
12 013 137
9 247 863
Total