Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy knows what I mean. An analysis is needed. However, it is a pity that every organisation must have a full-time person. It should not be like that. I recall that in one part of my constituency, when unemployment was high in the 1980s, we surveyed more than 400 unemployed adult males to mentor football teams but we could not get anyone to look after them. I agree analysis needs to be carried out. In a richer, more modern society where the pace is without doubt faster, there is a need to examine how we can encourage more people to become involved in active citizenship. It is not that we do not have many people already involved, but more are required. If everybody does a bit, it makes it easier. What tends to happen in the community is that a small number of people take on huge burdens We are very appreciative of their work. I accept it is for the Government to help. I hope the task force recommendations will lead to progress, as was the case with the White Paper on community activity a few years ago which led to the investment of large amounts of money into community activities and development in many areas. This gave rise to an improvement, although it may not have brought it to a level with which we are totally satisfied.

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