Jim O'Keeffe
Question:67 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on the future of the co-operative movement and its further contribution to enterprise and employment. [7557/98]
Written Answers. - Co-operative Movement.
Paragraph 8.19 of Partnership 2000 commits this Government to amending the Industrial and Provident Societies Acts, 1893 to 1978, which govern co-operative undertakings. While the specific commitment in Partnership 2000 refers specifically to the food industry, it has been decided that other necessary amendments should be taken on board in an update of the overall statutory framework.
To that end, our Department circulated a wide range of interests in January last with a consultation paper, identifying a number of possible amendments to these Acts. Replies must be received by the end of this month. Taking account of the comments received, draft legislative proposals will be prepared in the coming months for Government approval. I hope that it will be possible to publish an amending Bill later this year.
The co-operative movement has made an outstanding contribution to the economic and social development of this country over the years. I hope that the forthcoming legislative changes will enhance the growth prospects of the movement.