Vol. 527 No. 3
300 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the plans he has to mark the Year of the Volunteer in 2001; if he will be represented on a working group established for this purpose; the composition of this working group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28336/00]
The United Nations has designated the year 2001 as International Year of the Volunteer – IYV 2001. The main objectives are the recognition, promotion, facilitation and networking of volunteering contributions world-wide. The international year provides an opportunity to further raise the profile of volunteering in Ireland and progress the Government's policies with regard to development of social capital and encouragement of voluntarism.
I will launch the national committee on volunteering at 3 p.m. this afternoon. Membership of the committee is drawn from relevant Departments, including my Department, universities with related research or training roles, business and industry, foundations, leading NGOs and community and voluntary groups together with some individuals in their personal capacity.
This committee's primary function will be to agree a broad strategy for IYV 2001. I am also asking the committee to examine and make recommendations on: the possibilities for recognition and accreditation for voluntary work and for training undertaken as a volunteer; measures to widen the pool of volunteers; the range of supports needed in order to promote, sustain and develop volunteering.
A budget of £1 million has been allocated to the workings of the committee and its work will take account of the importance of proactively fostering a culture of support for volunteering.
