Mr. Paul Ginnell:

There are a couple of areas I wish to address. I think Ms Brid O'Brien will talk about the youth guarantee. It is also relevant to European Anti-Poverty Network (EAPN) Ireland. In relation to Deputy O'Reilly's questions on a social Europe, I agree with both points made in relation to a second year of free early care and education. It is extremely important. As noted, investment in the early years of a child's life has a greater benefit throughout that life and creates greater equality for children as they progress through the education system. Much of the focus in Ireland has been on third-level education and investing there although greater benefit - especially for children in disadvantaged areas - comes from investment in the early years. That investment and input in children's lives carries on throughout their lives. The impact on children is within a family context and a community context and this impacts the whole family later on.

The role of carers is an area that requires more investment and more focus, in particular carer's allowance and the role that plays within households. In the last number of years, many families have been struggling in that area. If there are greater supports within the family and a recognition of the role of the carer within the family, this supports the overall household to be socially engaged to a greater extent and its continued involvement and participation in wider society.

They are some of the elements of a social Europe. There has been a lot of talk about social investment at EU level. The focus of this needs perhaps a little clarification. In terms of social spending, it needs to be seen as an investment and not a cost. The two areas mentioned are part of that.