Trevor Sargent
Question:31 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform the progress to date in 1995 on the Task Force on Travellers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1343/95]
Written Answers. - Task Force on Travellers.
I understand that the Task Force on the Travelling Community has been making substantial progress to date in its deliberations. It submitted an Interim Report to me on the 14 January 1994, which I am studying at present. The Minister for Education and the Minister for the Environment have implemented some recommendations in relation to education and housing, respectively. The expectation is that it will furnish its final report to me by late spring or early summer of this year.
Following the resignation of Deputy Liz McManus, as chairperson of the task force on her appointment as Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, I appointed Senator Mary Kelly as chairperson with effect from 9 January 1995. Senator Kelly has been a member of the task force since its establishment in July 1993. I would like to thank Minister of State McManus for her work as chairperson and to wish Senator Kelly well in her new appointment.
I am quite satisfied with the progress made to date by the task force in carrying out its work. I am aware that it is addressing a large number of important and complex issues which impact on travellers. I look forward to receiving its Final Report and to considering, in due course, the views and recommendations contained therein.