Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 4 to 9, inclusive, together.

The new programme for Government agreed between Fianna Fáil, the Green Party and the Progressive Democrats, and supported by certain Independent Members of Dáil Éireann, has been translated in accordance with the Official Languages Act and is available in both languages on my Department's website. The Department is in the process of printing hard copies, which will be made available to every Deputy shortly.

The programme for Government sets out a comprehensive blueprint for Ireland's future up to 2012. I am happy to report to the House that implementation of this new programme is now under way and progress is being made on all areas of vital concern to the Irish people. The programme recognises that we must build upon the hard work of the people. This work has helped to create a dynamic society and a strong economy of which we can all be proud. In our programme, we have set out clearly the manner in which we will work with the people to safeguard the gains made and to build a strong and sustainable nation for future generations. It is a programme that recognises the clear challenges we face as a nation and provides a strong policy platform to meet these challenges head-on.

The programme for Government is one in which every Irish person can take pride. It provides a clear direction for the country and will deliver a stronger, more caring and environmentally sustainable Ireland for generations to come. The programme is fully costed and makes it clear that our budgets for the next five years will be kept in broad balance and fully within our commitments under the Stability and Growth Pact. In addition to the general overview role of the Department of the Taoiseach within the Government, which includes preparing and publishing an annual report on the implementation of the programme for Government, the Department has a number of other specific responsibilities. In particular, it is charged with continuing to lead the implementation of the social partnership process and specifically the current agreement, Towards 2016; instigating a review of the economic regulatory environment as set out in the programme for Government; promoting the active citizenship agenda to ensure we have vibrant local communities throughout the country; and organising commemorative activities such as a programme of events to celebrate key historical events that took place between 1913 and 1923.

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