Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 2 to 6, inclusive, together.

It is widely accepted that the quality of life is significantly enhanced by the willingness of people to become involved and active in their communities across the wide range of issues and interests which make up our civil society. It is equally recognised that there are many pressures which can inhibit such participation. Accordingly, I have decided to establish a task force on active citizenship to advise me and the Government on the steps which can be taken to encourage active participation.

The task force, whose membership and detailed terms of reference will be announced shortly, will comprise people from a variety of backgrounds and they will be asked to draw on the experience of existing organisations, as well as academic research and international practice, to identify specific measures which we can take in the short term, as well as issues which we need to address for the long term.

Additional information not given on the floor of the House.

It is also important that the task force should stimulate discussion and debate about the challenge of maintaining and developing active citizenship and a participatory society. I intend that the task force should make its report within six months of commencing its activity, and that the many groups and individuals with experience and views will have an opportunity to make an input to its work.

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