Michael Ferris
Question:101 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the measures, if any, taken within his Department to implement an anti-poverty strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15437/98]
Written Answers. - Anti-Poverty Strategy.
As the Deputy may be aware, the lead role in the development of the Government's strategic response to tackling poverty is being taken by my colleague, the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs, Deputy Dermot Ahern.
The role of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform in the national anti-poverty strategy process has been to put in place, within the Department, the relevant structures to ensure that poverty and inclusion issues are addressed in all relevant policy areas. The focus of the Department ranges from social inclusion measures which are aimed at specific groups to initiatives which address gender inequality and diversity within society. Within the resources available, the Department will work closely with other Departments in promoting and mainstreaming equality across the civil and public service through the Strategic Management Initiative, the national anti-poverty strategy and the national employment action plan.
The Department's Strategy Statement for the period up to the end of the year 2000 was published recently. It has, as one of its high level goals, the aim of bringing about a more equal society by outlawing discrimination and facilitating equality of opportunity, especially for certain groups which have experienced disadvantage.