Vol. 527 No. 2
34 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the growing tightening of the labour market and the failure by many employers to fill vacancies; the plans he has to bring forward proposals to encourage additional participation in the labour force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27975/00]
I am aware of the growing tightening of the labour market which reflects sustained, strong economic and employment growth and the major reduction in unemployment achieved in recent years, notwithstanding rising labour force participation.
A range of measures put in place by the Government has facilitated that increase in participation, including early intervention with the unemployed and measures to help the long-term unemployed and other disadvantaged groups under the national employment action plan; ongoing implementation of the national development plan which contains some £10 billion for policies in the areas of employment and human resources; initiatives taken in response to recommendations by the expert group on future skills needs; the revamping of the work permits system and introduction of a new working visa system to attract migrants; and, reductions in the burden of taxation.
In so far as proposals to encourage additional participation in the labour force are concerned, I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that it is not customary for the Minister for Finance to indicate in advance what measures, if any, will be taken in the budget which could have a bearing on this issue.
