asked the Minister for Economic Planning and Development in view of the recent disclosure that population census figures are much greater than anticipated, the proposals, if any, to revise economic plans and employment targets.
Written Answers. - Economic Plans.
107.
The main implication of the census result is that the labour force level may be about 30,000 to 40,000 higher than has been estimated in existing economic plans and employment targets. While this means that the number of jobs actually created in recent years is much higher than the planning estimates indicate, it also implies that future job requirements have been underestimated.
The full extent of the revision of economic plans and employment targets arising from the revised census cannot be assessed until more detailed information is available, particularly the age data from the census. This information is expected by mid-1980.
108.
asked the Minister for Economic Planning and Development if he will outline the steps now planned in view of the failure of the Government's plans to achieve, by a considerable margin, its target of 25,000 jobs.
The national understanding for Economic and Social Development provides that, should a significant shortfall in the employment target seem likely to occur, the Government will underwrite such a shortfall up to a ceiling of 5,000 jobs by means of a special joint public and private sector employment programme. Accordingly, as provided in the understanding, the tripartite standing committee are assessing the options for further direct job creation.
In addition, the Civil Service Commission are engaged in an intensive drive to fill the backlog of vacant posts which has built up because of the postal strike, so as to ensure that, as far as possible, all posts created under the Government's job creation programme are filled this year.
109.
asked the Minister for Economic Planning and Development if, in view of the expected failure of the economy to achieve the main targets set for 1979 by the Government, it is intended to alter economic strategy in any way.
The realisation of the targets for 1979 as set out in the White Paper "Programme for National Development 1978-81" was conditional on a favourable international climate and on the necessary domestic support especially in terms of industrial peace.
Understandably, events in 1979, both domestically and internationally, mean that there will be a shortfall in the growth and employment targets and a deterioration in the rate of inflation. Despite these setbacks, the growth rate is expected to be 4 per cent—one of the highest in the European Community—while an employment increase tentatively estimated at 15,000 is expected by the end of 1979. Progress on this scale demonstrates what can be achieved in the face of difficulties. They suggest that the correct course of action is not for the Government to alter its strategy, but rather to work for the removal of obstacles to even faster progress. This the Government has set out to do, through the national understanding.
110.
andMr. Kelly asked the Minister for Economic Planning and Development if it is intended to publish a long-term economic programme on the terms of the Second Programme or if it is intended to continue on the basis of Green and White Paper.
It is intended to continue with the publication of Green and White Papers as part of the planning procedures for economic and social development.