Vol. 476 No. 1
1 Mrs. O'Rourke asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment the process of consultation he engaged in with the trade unions and with FÁS in the compilation of the White Paper on training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6440/97]
In preparing the White Paper on Human Resource Development I have consulted with many different groups and organisations which have an interest in the development of our human resources. FÁS and trade unions were among these. From the outset I recognised that their practical experience and expertise would be invaluable in planning a new human resource development policy which will bring us into the 21st century.
Written submissions were invited and received from many different organisations, including employers, trade unions and the agencies. In the process of consultation, I met the board of FÁS to discuss various aspects of the White Paper. I presided over a number of fora on the White Paper, which were attended by people covering a wide range of expertise. I also organised a consultative seminar on the White Paper held in Dublin Castle. The seminar was attended by many diverse groups and the contributions made were of considerable value. Employers, trade unions, FÁS and the industrial agencies were involved in all of these consultations.
Did the Minister meet with the relevant unions within FÁS? Did he apprise them of the likely outcome of the White Paper?
I met with several trade unions representing workers in FÁS. The issue of making decisions about any changes that might occur is entirely a matter for Government. Until the Government has made a decision, I will not be discussing proposals with any party.
It is ten years since the Deputy's colleague, Deputy Bertie Ahern, established the structures now in place. It is timely to look at those structures to see if they can serve us into the 21st century.
I have no difficulty accepting that any structure in place for a considerable length of time needs to be reviewed. I read in the newspapers that the unions are dismayed at the likely contents of the White Paper. Did the Minister apprise the unions in FÁS of the likely changes brought to Cabinet and the effects they would have on their jobs?
I agree it is unfortunate and undesirable that rumours circulate about what may happen. Policy issues are clearly a matter for Government. When Government makes decisions, they will be communicated by me. It is equally true that until Government takes decisions, one cannot get into consultations about specific proposals which may emerge. However, there have been exhaustive consultations about different options and approaches. We have heard views from many unions, including SIPTU, which was represented at consultations. We have taken the views expressed into account.
During preparation for Partnership 2000, was this issue part of the debate, either in main or ancillary consultations?
The area of human resource development was a significant part of Partnership 2000.
I do not mean that, but rather forthcoming changes.
The discussions have been on the broad direction of human resource development and the approaches which would be most beneficial. There are some signposts in Partnership 2000 to the approach which will effectively equip us to deal with human resource issues into the 21st century. On foot of that, I will bring the White Paper proposals to Government. When Government reaches a decision on those proposals, I will make them known to the public and will implement the proposals in consultation with all concerned parties.
The Minister's answer was disingenuous. I wanted to know if he has told the workers in FÁS that their lives will be changed?
Of course I have not told them that.
That is what I thought.
When the Deputy sees the White Paper——
I can only go on what I read in the newspapers.
——she will see some significant improvements in the way in which human resource policy is implemented. The White Paper will serve both providers and receivers of human resource development and training, with a good framework for future development.
