Ivor Callely
Question:63 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the legislative and administrative priorities of his Department in 1996; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5273/96]
Written Answers. - Departmental Priorities.
I refer the Deputy to my answers to Questions Nos. 85 and 86 of 23 January 1996 in regard to the legislative proposals under preparation in the Department of Foreign Affairs.
The overriding administrative priorities of the Department of Foreign Affairs in 1996 are to continue to carry forward the peace process in Northern Ireland and to ensure a successful Presidency of the European Union in the second half of the year.
In addition, the Department will continue to develop Ireland's Development Co-operation Programme in accordance with the commitments in the Programme for Government. The Passport and Consular Service to the public will also be maintained and, where possible, improved.
The priority of the office of the Tánaiste on the legislative front is to facilitate the enactment of the freedom of information legislation by the Oireachtas.
On the administrative side, the office of the Tánaiste will continue to play a full part in the development of all major Government policy initiatives. It will also continue to ensure that the views of the National Economic and Social Forum are taken into account by Government in the development of policies. The other priorities for the office include working on the development of the Strategic Management Initiative and preparation and evaluation of issues that are likely to arise in any future social partnership arrangements.
In addition the office of the Tánaiste will co-chair a number of International Fund for Ireland initiatives aimed at providing focused support for regenerating disadvantaged communities in Northern Ireland and the Border counties. It will also participate in various working groups such as the Central Review Committee under theProgramme for Competitiveness and Work, the National Economic and Social Council, the Advisory Group on the Local Employment Service and the Interdepartmental Group on the National Anti-Poverty Strategy.