Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 182: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the number of new committees, advisory groups or new positions in general that have been put in place since he was appointed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40556/11]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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In line with a commitment in the programme for Government, I established an advisory group on tax and social welfare in June of this year. Members of the group have expertise in economic and social policy as well as other relevant areas and include a mix of experience and expertise from within and outside the public sector. The group has been tasked with recommending cost-effective solutions as to how employment incentives can be improved and better poverty outcomes achieved, particularly child poverty outcomes. The issue of family and child income supports is currently being examined by the Group.

I also appointed a steering group on the national internship scheme in May to advise me on the implementation of the scheme. The steering group is comprised of representatives from the private, public and voluntary sectors.