Joe Higgins
Question:14 Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) asked the Taoiseach the studies which are currently being carried out by the National Economic and Social Council. [9568/02]
Written Answers. - National Economic and Social Council.
The National Economic and Social Council provides advice to the Government on the development of the economy and the achievement of social justice. The council continues to be at the forefront in identifying and analysing strategic policy issues and, in that context, undertakes high quality analytical research. The council's work programme for the remainder of the year includes the following projects: the management of public expenditure; regional development in Ireland: A Case Study of the North-West; review of strategic options in tax and social welfare; and Strategy 2002, which will set the context for the negotiations later this year on a successor to the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness. So far this year, the council has published two reports: National Progress Indicators and Benchmarking the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness. Although the council has a challenging work programme, the strategy process is being treated as a key priority.
Question No. 15 resubmitted.