I understand that the Commission on the Family will finalise its report over the coming weeks. I intend to submit it to Government with a view to publication as soon as possible.
I have been advised by the commission that the report contains a comprehensive analysis of issues affecting families. The recommendations will provide the basis for the development of an integrated "family policy" to strengthen and assist families in coping with change and to put in place the supports to prevent family breakdown. In addition, the commission has undertaken some original and significant research work which will be of benefit to analysts and policy makers, including a national survey of the child care arrangements which families make, sociological research on fathers and their role in family life and an overview of family policy in Ireland.