Vol. 569 No. 4
85 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the actions he has taken to promote active citizenship as outlined in the White Paper on a Framework for Supporting Voluntary Activity and for developing the relationship between the State and the community and voluntary sector; his further plans, in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [217857/03]
The foreword to the White Paper contains a statement of the Government's commitment to building an inclusive society in which community and voluntary groups can play a vital role. The Government's vision of society is one in which the active involvement and participation of citizens is vital to the health and well-being of society and its citizens.
Active citizenship is one of the key concepts that underpins the vision and philosophical basis for the White Paper. The concept is one of creating a vibrant and active society where the participation of citizens is encouraged and fostered through State support for a responsive community and voluntary sector. The aim is to achieve the creation of dialogue between citizens and the State with the objective of addressing issues in a spirit of partnership and co-operation where responses are informed by the views of ordinary citizens are heard.
The White Paper defines active citizenship as the active role of people, communities and voluntary organisations in decision-making that directly affects them. For many years now, social partnership has played a key role in enabling the voluntary and community sector to contribute to major economic and social planning. In addition, there is continued support for active citizenship at local level through: local area partnerships; community development projects; the community fora which operate in each city and county development board; once-off grant schemes administered by my Department; and funding and support for community based projects such as the local drugs task forces, RAPID, Leader and PEACE.
