Vol. 516 No. 5
151 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when he will establish the task force of social partners and other relevant interests to develop a coherent long-term approach to the needs of Irish emigrants; the composition of the task force; the timeframe of its operation; the budget; and the terms of reference. [8328/00]
It is provided in the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness that a task force of the kind and with the purpose mentioned by the Deputy will be established. It will comprise people from organisations involved in emigrant welfare in Ireland and abroad as well as representatives of Irish Departments and agencies. The membership and terms of reference, including the time by which the task force should report, will be decided and announced shortly. No special budget for the work of the task force has been allocated but it will have at its disposal whatever resources may be necessary to accomplish its task.
