Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 5 to 26, inclusive, together.

The programme for Government agreed between Fianna Fáil, the Green Party, the Progressive Democrats and certain Independent Members of Dáil Éireann is a comprehensive blueprint for the country's future. It is fully costed and makes it clear that the budgets over the lifetime of the Government will be kept in broad balance and fully within our commitments under the Stability and Growth Pact.

Since last summer, the Government has wasted no time in commencing our implementation of the wide ranging proposals contained within the agreed programme. Progress on the implementation of the Government programme is continuing and kept constantly under review. Over the duration of this Government, I look forward to the programme being implemented in full. Over the next four years, I believe the Irish people will see incremental and steady changes which will benefit both Irish society and the Irish economy.

It is the responsibility of each individual Minister to ensure that the commitments in the programme that fall within their particular portfolio are fully implemented. In the policy areas which are the responsibility of my Department, I am happy to report that good progress has been made in a number of significant areas. As the House will be aware, the area of active citizenship is a direct responsibility of my Department. It is an area of particular interest to me and one I have pushed in the past number of years. In this regard, an Active Citizenship Office has now been established in my Department, in line with the recommendations of the Taskforce on Active Citizenship.

The office is currently preparing a plan to implement the recommendations, following consultations that are under way with relevant Departments. In addition, the office has received a positive response from a number of organisations in the business sector that are willing to assist in advancing the active citizenship agenda. In particular, the office, which is chaired by Ms Mary Davis, continues to consult with various business interests to encourage greater connectivity to the community through this sector. Building on existing initiatives, there is a significant contribution this sector can make to communities nationwide.

Consultations are also being held with the wider educational sector with particular regard to raising awareness of the potential for service learning and volunteering. A progress report on the implementation of the task force recommendations is currently being prepared by the office and will be published shortly.

I want to emphasis to the House that as a Government we remain committed to strengthening the fabric of Irish society and to creating an Ireland with vibrant towns and townlands.

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