Vol. 395 No. 9
87 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the title and terms of reference of each commission, committee, working group or other similar body set up since 1 January 1986 to advise him on the policy or functions of his Department; the nature of each body, that is, whether it is permanent or ad hoc; when each ad hoc body reported; its recommendations; and the action, if any, which has been taken or is being taken in regard to same.
The Policy Advisory Committee on Refugees (PAC) was set up in December 1986. Its function is to advise the Minister for Foreign Affairs on issues arising in the resettlement of refugees admitted to Ireland in accordance with Government decisions. It is a standing committee comprising representatives of the Departments of Foreign Affairs, Health, Justice, Social Welfare, Industry and Commerce, Education and Labour and the Refugee Resettlement Committee with observers from the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), the Episcopal Commission for Emigrants, CONGOOD and the Irish Red Cross. The committee reports to me annually.
No other advisory committee has been established during the period within the area of my Department's responsibility.
