Vol. 525 No. 3
164 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Taoiseach the number of working groups he has established under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness; if he will name each working group; the task and the expected date for conclusion in each group; and the membership. [25123/00]
In accordance with the monitoring arrangements set out in section 5.3 of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness, my Department chairs and services the central review mechanism. Its task is "to identify the appropriate arrangements to oversee the implementation of the four operational frameworks in the agreement, to assess progress, and to address the strategic issues arising in order to review and monitor the operation of the programme". The central review mechanism will remain in place until the PPF expires at end 2002 and it comprises representatives from all the relevant Government Departments, as well as the social partners.
In addition to the central review mechanism, implementation of the PPF involves a considerable number of working groups and similar consultative fora which are the responsibility of the appropriate Ministers and their Departments.
165 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Taoiseach the total cost to date of staff support allocated to working groups established under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness. [25126/00]
The information sought is not recorded by my Department. The effort required to monitor such costs on an ongoing basis would not necessarily give any value-added. The costs arising in my Department relate to the leading role it plays in both the negotiation and implementation of the social partnership agreements. I am satisfied that the costs involved are insignificant when set against the enormous contribution which social partnership has made, and continues to make, to the economic and social well-being of Irish society.
