I welcome the forum report as a useful and constructive analysis and contribution to the complex issues relating to the problem of long term unemployment. The Government has considered the report and has set up a task force to carry out a detailed examination and assessment of the proposals made by the forum in its report and in that context to develop proposals for better targeting and providing more effective services for the unemployed.
The task force is due to make its initial report to Government by 30 November next, on foot of which I would expect the Government to make any decisions considered necessary without delay.