Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The programme for a partnership Government is the agreement between members of the new minority Government setting out the specific commitments which will be delivered by the Government over its lifetime. This programme, which was published on 11 May, was the outcome of many hours of discussion which took place between my party and Independent Deputies and groupings. During these discussions agreement was reached with the now Minister of State, Deputy Halligan, to undertake an independent clinical review of services at University Hospital Waterford. This agreement was set out in the programme for a partnership Government and a letter on the matter from the Minister for Finance, Deputy Noonan, to the Minister of State, Deputy Halligan, was published on the merrionstreet.iewebsite.

Central to the approach for delivering on this ambitious programme is the concept of good faith and no surprises. The programme for Government sets out a new and collaborative approach in doing business, not only in including the partners of Government but in being inclusive of the Oireachtas and wider society.

Implementation of the programme for a partnership Government will require a new relationship between the Government and the Oireachtas. This is reflected in significant Dáil reforms that have been agreed and are being implemented in the House and will provide a significantly greater role for Members of the Dáil. These arrangements will require greater collaboration and sharing of information by the Government with the Oireachtas, and a new process to support this is being put in place and will be co-ordinated by my Department. It will pose a challenge to all Members of the Oireachtas to ensure this new relationship works effectively in the long-term interest of the people we represent.

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