I propose to take Questions Nos. 96 and 131 together.
Preparation for the Irish Presidency of the EU started in late 2001 and is increasing in intensity as the Presidency approaches. It involves enhanced ministerial and interdepartmental co-ordination, contacts with previous and future presidencies and enhanced contacts at all levels with the EU institutions and with current and new member states.
Two interdepartmental committees were established in 2001, chaired by the Department of Foreign Affairs, to co-ordinate the preparations for the Presidency. The interdepartmental committee for co-ordinating the Presidency deals with programming and policy related matters and the inter-departmental administrative planning group deals with logistical planning. Both groups report through the Department of Foreign Affairs to the interdepartmental co-ordinating committee on European Union affairs and to the Cabinet Sub-Committee on European Affairs. In addition, the Department of the Taoiseach chairs an interdepartmental Lisbon Group which will co-ordinate preparations for the Spring European Council.
Preparation in a number of areas including the calendar of Council meetings and the compilation of the list of chairpersons and national delegates for committees and working groups is already well advanced. In addition a series of high level visits have been taking place, with the presidency as a principal focus, to current and future member states.
The additional staff resources required for the Presidency are being put in place and the Centre for Management and Organisation Development, CMOD, at the Department of Finance is currently conducting a wide range of training courses to train staff at all levels for the presidency. Work is also well advanced on the development of a Presidency logo and website.