Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

Deputy Kenny will appreciate that the number of groups, bodies and organisations that wanted to have a member on the task force was enormous, which was encouraging. At a time when it is difficult to get people to serve on what used to be seen as attractive boards, that was not a problem with this task force. The issue raised by Deputy Kenny came up but while the membership of the task force on active citizenship includes people from a range of diverse backgrounds, it was not feasible to pick a representative from the immigrant or ethnic communities. There is an umbrella body for the ethnic groups which represents approximately 25 or 35 groups, many of which wanted to be members of the task force.

However, many of the groups with members on the task force, such as the trade unions, churches and business and youth organisations have large numbers of members from the ethnic groups. They are quite happy that they can get input on the integration issue from within their own groups and if need be, they can call on other groups or representatives. Many of them feel happy that they can represent ethnic groups. Obviously, to demonstrate the inclusive nature of the task force, they will consult some of the relevant groups. Many groups have not yet reached the stage where they will nominate one person or group to represent them. It is best left to the representatives of trade unions, churches and youth organisations to deal with the matter.

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