I stated in my speech at the launch of the new national Programme for Competitiveness and Work on 14 February 1994, that the total at work should increase by more than 60,000 in the three years of the programme. That increase would be broadly equivalent to the best three-year performance achieved in the past. I also stated that the increase would not fully match the expected labour force increase in the years 1994 to 1996.
I pointed out that the recent measures announced in the budget, in addition to their direct impact in 1994, are intended to provide for more substantial increases in jobs in the years ahead, especially in developing small business, start-up enterprises and service firms. I also pointed out that given even a slight increase in jobs in a reasonable percentage of the 100,000 small businesses in Ireland — as indicated in recent reports and surveys — unemployment would be further reduced. In addition, if growing areas of the services sector perform well, this would help reduce unemployment to more acceptable levels.
The Government and social partners have agreed to reinforce these budgetary measures for the development of small business and start-up enterprises, and for the development of the services sector over the period of the PCW and, in particular, to increase the numbers on community-based work, work experience and training to 100,000 people, who would otherwise be unemployed.
The Government and social partners have also agreed that these reinforced policies for work will be pursued continuously and actively by the Central Review Committee throughout the period of the PCW. The committee will take account of the views expressed and the positions agreed upon by the National Economic and Social Forum and the National Economic and Social Council in providing updated recommendations to Government as required in the light of the emerging trends in employment and unemployment. The committee will oversee the development of effective, regular measures to monitor the numbers at work based on CSO data, FÁS sources, Revenue and social welfare information supplemented by new inquiries if required.
I believe this hands on approach can be a key part of successfully applying the same national determination in creating work, as we did in 1987, in restoring financial stability.