Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I propose to answer Questions Nos. 1 to 4, inclusive, together. As Deputies are aware, our initial programme for Government made clear that its delivery was based on a growth rate of 4.5% annually. The renewed programme for Government takes account of the very much changed economic circumstances and of progress to date in implementing the programme and sets out the priority issues on which Government is focusing for the period ahead. I am confident it will serve us well. It is the responsibility of each individual Minister to ensure that the commitments in the renewed programme that fall with their particular portfolio are sought to be implemented.

We all have to adapt to changed economic circumstances. Just as businesses and families are adapting to the new reality, the Government has to do so too. The renewed programme will direct efforts on our behalf in dealing with national and international issues which are fundamental to our well-being and development. While the international economic environment remains uncertain, there is growing evidence of stabilisation of the Irish economy, reflecting the decisive action take in the 2010 budget and our commitment to further adjustments in 2011 and subsequent years.

We are focusing on implementation in order to try to deliver measures which will stimulate sustainable economic recovery and job creation in line with the Government's smart economy framework. The Department of the Taoiseach derives its mandate from my role as Head of Government. It is involved in some degree in supporting implementation of many aspects of the work of Government and provides support to me as Taoiseach and to the Government through the Government secretariat, the Cabinet committee system and its involvement in key policy areas and initiatives.

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