asked the Minister for Finance the proposals, if any, he has to merge or co-ordinate the Economic and Social Research Institute with the National Economic and Social Council; if there is any unwarranted overlap between the activities of the two bodies; whether the resources applied to these bodies might not be more closely coordinated to avoid duplication; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Economic-Social Bodies Activities.
31.
The Deputy will be aware that, in the current public finance circumstances, all areas of Government expenditure are being rigorously evaluated with a view to achieving further significant reductions. At this stage, however, I would see little merit in a merger of the Economic and Social Research Institute and the National Economic and Social Council. The functions of both bodies are fundamentally different; the Institute is a research agency, while the Council is a consultative forum where the social partners meet to discuss economic and social policy issues and to advise Government on their application. The work programmes of both bodies are monitored regularly to ensure that any potential duplication is avoided and that their activities are as complementary as possible.