Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Apr 1999

Vol. 503 No. 4

Written Answers. - Anti-Poverty Strategy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

47 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the extent to which he has evaluated the needs of the less well off with the particular objective of eliminating poverty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10360/99]

Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern):

Evaluation and up dating of information regarding levels of poverty and the particular needs of the poorer sections in our society is an ongoing process. The continuing implementation of the National Anti-Poverty Strategy, NAPS, and this Government's commitment to promoting social inclusion provide the framework for a wide range of policy actions which are further informed by the broad range of organisations and agencies working in this field.

The difficulties faced by the less well off are complex and often compounded by the existence of cumulative disadvantage. It is important that, in addition to income support, an integrated response to the full range of social problems, such as unemployment and educational disadvantage, is pursued. A wide range of research and information is of relevance when addressing the issue of social exclusion and targeting policy to effectively address the needs of the disadvantaged.

The Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion, which encompasses the full range of Government activities in this field, continues to ensure that social exclusion is tackled in a coherent and co-ordinated fashion.

The Economic and Social Research Institute, ESRI, are currently finalising a report on Monitoring Trends in Poverty for the National Anti-Poverty Strategy, commissioned by my Department and the Combat Poverty Agency. This report is due to be completed shortly and it will update the figures for the levels of poverty in Ireland to 1997. It will provide us with the first update on the 1994 data which formed the basis for the overall NAPS target for poverty reduction. This updated information will allow us to measure progress to date in combating disadvantage and help us to refocus our efforts on those most in need.

In addition to this material, there are a number of forthcoming publications which will make an important contribution in this area. For instance, research due to be published this year by the Combat Poverty Agency relating to child poverty, farm incomes and women in poverty as well as research being prepared by the ESRI on behalf of the National Council on Ageing and Older People, on living standards and quality of life of older people will all help to inform policy actions in relation to alleviation of poverty.

Overall, this Government has lived up to its promise to keep the needs of the poor at the forefront of policy-making. It will continue to do so as a matter of priority as its social inclusion programme is progressed, and the needs of the less well off will continue to be paramount in this context.