Vol. 395 No. 9
184 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Social Welfare the title and terms of reference of each commission, committee, working grouping or other similar body set up since 1 January 1986 to advise him on the policy or functions of his Department; the nature of each body, that is, whether it is permanent or ad hoc; when each ad hoc body reported; its recommendations; and the action, if any, which has been taken or is being taken in regard to same.
The Combat Poverty Agency which was established in September 1986 provides regular advice and reports to me on poverty-related social and economic issues, while the National Pensions Board established in February 1986 provides a similar service on pensions-related issues.
As part of the on-going administration of my Department committees of officials are frequently established on an ad hoc basis to examine particular problems or issues. For instance, as announced by the Minister for Finance in his budget statement, an inter-departmental study is to be undertaken this year into the operation of the PRSI system. Apart from these, committees or working groups are formally established from time to time to report on particular issues. In May 1989 the review group on the treatment of households in the social welfare system was established to examine the social welfare code in so far as it affects households with particular regard to the equal treatment provisions. The review group is expected to complete its deliberations within the next few months.
