Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Various targets and scenarios are set out by various organisations, including the European Commission, the OECD, the IMF, the ESRI and the Department of Finance. One can consider a range of growth scenarios. The assumptions we made in respect of our plans reflect a knowledge of the flexibility of the Irish economy, its resilience and its broad base. In many cases, the models used in continental Europe, which has a different demographic profile, do not take into account the flexibility of the labour market in this country compared to some continental countries. That has always been a difference in the modelling that takes place.

Regarding engagement with various stakeholders, the process represents a framework at EU level, which allows for a structured approach to measures and initiatives likely to be needed over coming years. In this context, engagement with the social partners is desirable and worthwhile. Initial contacts began before the summer break, when meetings took place at official level. These were an opportunity for social partners to express the views of their sector on the strategy as was emerging at that time. A number of them have recently made written submissions in respect of the preparation of Ireland's draft national reform programme. As the Government continues to prepare that programme for submission next April, I anticipate further engagement with social partners and other stakeholders.

With regard to engagement with the Oireachtas, a cross-departmental delegation of officials discussed the Europe 2020 strategy with the Oireachtas Joint Committee on European Affairs on 3 June. I expect further engagement with that committee early in the new year. Regarding engagement with regional government, officials from the Department of the Taoiseach and the Department of Finance attended the joint meeting of Ireland's representatives on the Committee of the Regions and the Association of Irish Regions last Friday. Officials briefed delegations on the process and invited written submissions. We anticipate further consultation with regional interests in the new year.

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