Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

It is a part of the programme set out for the Union. I mentioned the five headline areas of employment, research and development, climate change, education and poverty. In so far as the strategy is concerned, the programme for Government sets out the fact that the Government is fully committed to the 2020 strategy and the creation of employment in smart, sustainable and inclusive growth.

Poverty is an issue that is part of the programme submitted and it is something about which we are concerned. Those living close to or below the poverty line, of whom there are many, deserve the consideration of Government and we will give them whatever priority we can afford to encourage and bring them up the ladder of life opportunity. The Department of the Taoiseach is responsible for co-ordinating the preparation of Ireland's national reform programme with line Departments. Deputy Adams may be assured that, in so far as this is one of the headline areas, we will see that it is promoted.

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