Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

As I indicated, the Council exchanged information and discussed issues related to the current global economic position, as well as demographic and energy issues. The question of the extent to which we can develop offshore energy infrastructure between Northern Ireland and Scotland, with the possible involvement of other jurisdictions, arose on the energy side. The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Eamon Ryan, attended the meeting.

On the issue of demographics and its impact on social policy, a general discussion took place on the demographic position in each jurisdiction and what was being done to try to deal with impending demographic change and its impact on public policy generally. The economic situation was discussed in terms of ongoing events around the world and how they were affecting the individual jurisdictions represented at the forum.

It was also suggested Wales take on a work stream on policies it was proposing on early years development and how other countries could learn from them. Child protection issues were also discussed and representatives of the Isle of Man indicated that a particular issue arose in their jurisdiction and that they were anxious to set out their position. The First Minister and Deputy First Minister also discussed that topic from a Northern Ireland perspective.

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