Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I accept what the Taoiseach has stated but there is a need for a greater information flow in this House on the work of cross-departmental and interdepartmental teams and task forces. I am specifically trying to secure some up-to-date information about just two of them. With reference to the helpful mode the Taoiseach is suggesting he is in this morning, perhaps he will undertake to circulate to this Deputy the up-to-date position on the two areas I have addressed if his notes do not offer the salient detail. These are the subgroup of senior officials on disability, a very important area, and the strategic task force on alcohol.

The Taoiseach has shared information with us, particularly with regard to the latter, given the significant public concern about the abuse of alcohol, particularly by younger people. There are many areas of concern, both in regard to the health of young people and how alcohol affects development and contributes to the continual carnage on our roads. There is a raft of areas involved so I would like to know where this so-called strategic task force stands. Where is its work programme at this point and when will it report?

It would be welcome if the Taoiseach could elaborate on what he has said. I will understand if he does not but in the same spirit as he responded on the question before, I ask him to circulate further information subsequently.

See this speech in context