Vol. 517 No. 6
108 Mrs. Owen asked the Taoiseach if he has received a copy of the report on the basic income policy; the reason for the delay in finalising this work in view of the fact that a commitment was made in Partnership 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10465/00]
The working group on basic income, comprised of representatives of all four pillars of social partnership as well as the relevant Government Departments, is currently examining all aspects of the basic income proposal. A study commissioned by the group is now being finalised and the results will be made available at an early date. The complex nature of the proposal, the level of work required in the study and the fact that many members of the group were involved in the negotiations for the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness over recent months accounted for the delay in finalising the work.
