Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I want to address the composition of the task force. Will the Taoiseach confirm that one of the aims and objectives of the new task force in preparing an action plan is to see an improvement in the delivery of services through the public service? If that is the case — other questioners have raised the issue of engagement with other sectors — does the Taoiseach not agree that the restrictive composition of the task force — the Secretary General to the Government, Secretaries General of a number of Departments and a number of representatives of private sector interests — means it lacks something that would undoubtedly help the work and focus of the task force, namely, direct access to those who represent the consumer, the ordinary citizen, representatives of the trade union sector and non-governmental organisations?

Will the Taoiseach consider expanding the number of people who will be directly involved in the work of the task force? I do not mean that tongue-in-cheek, but there was mention here previously of consumer groups and their representatives. Does the Taoiseach see a role for such a representative in this matter? In this Deputy's opinion, they would have a contribution to make. By being confined particularly to the Secretaries General named and representatives of the private sector, the task force will not do its job as thoroughly as it might. I hope and expect it has a much wider brief. Will the Taoiseach rectify this?

At a time of ever-straitening economic circumstances and cutbacks, will the Taoiseach assuage fears that the task force might be used as a vehicle, particularly with its current membership, towards seeking contraction in the public service in the period ahead? Can the Taoiseach assuage any fear that prevails in the House and externally that the task force might be so misemployed in the course of its work over the short period that it has been tasked to address these issues?

See this speech in context