The new watchdog aims to ensure public services are delivered effectively and that departments work together.

Deputy Jean Pritchard has been studying the role of similar bodies in other jurisdictions.

She believes its duty to the public will empower the committee and she is determined to find solutions.

'Enormous challenge'

She said: "Big issues in the election were accountability and transparency, which is what Scrutiny is going to be all about, I hope.

"I think through openness and accountability, being constructive, open-minded and taking the balanced view, we're on the way to making things better."

The committee's reports would be open to the public, she said.

She added: "This committee has got to start from scratch. No other committee has ever had this opportunity.

"I feel we have a blank piece of paper and this is an enormous challenge, but I like to rise to a challenge."