Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 to 3, inclusive, together.

I advised the House on 11 May last of my intention to continue with the process of dialogue between Government and churches, faith communities and non-confessional organisations that was inaugurated in February 2007. On 19 May I had the opportunity to meet representatives of many of the partners in this dialogue to convey this interest directly.

I was very pleased to visit the Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland in Clonskeagh on 3 September as the community continued their celebration of the Eid festival. It was a welcome opportunity to meet local and regional representatives, together with many families and community members. Both these encounters were important as foundations for the relationship the Government will build during its term of office, but our discussions were introductory and informal and consistent with the occasions. I hope to arrange further meetings soon with individual dialogue partners. The structure for dialogue will also include meetings at official and ministerial level. The agendas for those meetings will be agreed in advance with each dialogue partner.

The process of structured dialogue was envisaged from the outset as a channel of consultation and communication on matters of mutual concern, but not to displace or override the normal arrangements for the conduct of policy and administration by Departments and agencies in their functional responsibility. I am satisfied that the process of dialogue will develop in the years to come to be a very valuable support in dealing with issues of change in society, and I am confident that the opportunity to exchange perspectives and address issues of mutual concern in this way will be of great benefit to all the participants.

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