Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Will the Minister indicate how soon she expects the project group to have its inaugural meeting? Is she in a position to advise the House of the make-up of the group? Is it cross-departmental in nature and does it include representatives of external non-governmental organisations which have an interest in this area? Given the wide range of best practice and information internationally from which we can draw, I appeal to the Minister to ensure this does not become a foot-dragging exercise. It is crucial that the 116000 number is established in this country. Will the Minister provide a timeframe or deadline within which the project group will complete its work in order that the outcome of its deliberations is available, hopefully in the coming year?

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