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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 13 Oct 1993

Vol. 434 No. 5

Written Answers. - Voluntary Social Services Charter.

Mary Harney

Question:

14 Miss Harney asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will give a report on the progress made in the preparation of the Charter on Voluntary Social Services; and when the promised White Paper, outlining the Government's proposals in this area, will be published.

Helen Keogh

Question:

17 Ms Keogh asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will give a report on the progress made in the preparation of the Charter on Voluntary Social Services; and when the promised White Paper, outlining the Government's proposals in this area, will be published.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 17 together.

In preparing the draft White Paper on voluntary social services I am conscious that this will be one of the most important developments in relation to the voluntary sector in this country for many years. My intention is that the White Paper will set out a framework for partnership between the State and voluntary bodies and develop a cohesive strategy for supporting voluntary activity. If the White Paper is to effectively determine the future direction of the relationship between statutory agencies for many years it is important that we get it right at the outset. It is essential in this context that both the statutory and voluntary sectors have adequate opportunity to fully consider all the issues involved and the implications for them of any proposals which may be made.
The interdepartmental task force, which was set up under the chairmanship of my Department, to assist in the preparation of the White Paper has considered a number of draft proposals prepared by my Department in relation to the White Paper. The expert group, which was established to mediate the views and concerns of that sector and to act as a resource to the task force, has also had an opportunity to consider and offer views.
In the light of the views expressed, my Department is at present finalising the preparation of a draft White Paper. When the draft has been finalised it will be circulated to all Government Departments prior to submission to the Government. My intention at this point is that I will be ready to go to the Government with my proposals before the end of the year.
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