Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Who is involved in the review of the programme for Government? Is it a case that each Minister has been asked to address his or her respective areas of interest within the programme? Does that involve an appraisal of the cost of measures that the Government wishes to see continued? Is it a process that is solely between the two parties in Government, and between the Taoiseach and Deputy John Gormley?

What is the situation between the Government and independent Deputies Harney, Grealish, Lowry and Healy Rae? What is the position on their respective areas of interest and agreements, beginning with the role of the Progressive Democrats in the negotiation of the programme for Government after the 2007 general election and continuing with the commitments which the other independent Deputies claim to have secured from the Government? They keep these commitments under wraps and away from public scrutiny. Is it the case that all of these matters will be addressed and that the detail of a new programme for Government will be published? Will it be debated in this House after the summer recess?

The section on social affairs in the current programme for Government states that the Government will continue to maintain the value of the lowest rate of social welfare payments, as agreed in the national action plan on social inclusion. Does the Taoiseach accept that such a commitment is crucial? Any tinkering with the supports for people dependent on social welfare will lead to the risk of poverty, especially among young people who are in family arrangements that are dependent on social welfare. There is currently a softening up effort of the electorate in advance of December's budget, particularly those who are dependent on social welfare. Can the Taoiseach give an assurance this morning that the commitment to the national action plan on social inclusion will be honoured after the agreement on the new programme for Government and after the budget expected later this year?

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