asked the Taoiseach whether he has received any advice from the National Industrial and Economic Council as to how the targets set out in the Second Programme for Economic Expansion are to be realised; and, if not, if he is prepared to make a statement as to what steps the Government propose to take to see that they are realised.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers - Economic Expansion Targets.
1.
The National Industrial Economic Council, in its recent interim report on the Second Programme for Economic Expansion, stated:—
It is essential that all who are in a position to influence the level and behaviour of industrial activity should be involved in the formulation and revision of the detailed targets within the framework of the Programme.
A series of discussions, between the Government Departments concerned and representatives of the principal industries, regarding the targets of the Programme have been in progress for some time past. It is understood that the National Industrial Economic Council has been reviewing the arrangements for these discussions to consider whether they need extension or revision and to ensure that they will proceed as expeditiously as possible. Any recommendations made by the Council on these matters will be favourably considered.
The object of these discussions is to agree projections, up to 1970, of levels of output and exports for individual industries in line with the general industrial aims of the Programme and to pinpoint any difficulties which may arise in achieving these levels, so that appropriate policies may be formulated to overcome such difficulties. The Council will be kept advised of the results of these discussions and will have the opportunity of making any recommendations it considers desirable on problems arising from them.
Would the Taoiseach say if he has any idea when a definite plan will emerge as a result of these discussions?
It is contemplated that the second volume relating to the Economic Development Programme will be published in May or June.
That is the second volume of the Blue Book, so to speak?
That is right.
And it will contain a plan?
It will contain the results of the detailed discussions that are taking place.