Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 3 to 8, inclusive, together. The National Economic and Social Council, NESC, advises me on strategic policy issues concerning sustainable economic, social and environmental development in Ireland. In addition to a range of research and background papers, the council published three reports during 2020: Addressing Employment Vulnerability as Part of a Just Transition in Ireland, NESC report No. 149; Housing Policy: Actions to Deliver Change, NESC report No. 150; and The Future of the Irish Social Welfare System: Participation and Protection, NESC report No. 151. The NESC work programme for 2021 is focused on a shared island project, which is a programme of possible co-operation in research across several economic, social and environmental areas in Ireland, North and South, and a wellbeing framework, a programme NESC is developing for Ireland by consulting with stakeholders. That is important work to underpin a Government objective.

Research is also being undertaken by NESC on a climate and biodiversity and just transition programme and work is underway on advice and research in respect of a just transition to a low-carbon economy and society. In addition, NESC's work programme also focuses on digital inclusion and the preparation of a report which will identify actions which will help better prepare individuals, the economy, society and the public service for a more digitalised future. In the area of welfare reform, NESC is undertaking the preparation and publication of a comprehensive report on the future of the Irish social welfare system. The council has so far published two reports in 2021, namely, Grounding the Recovery in Sustainable Development: A Statement from the Council, NESC report No. 152, and Shared Island: Projects, Progress and Policy Scoping Paper, NESC report No. 153. As reports are finalised in the relevant areas, they are brought to Government for approval in advance of publication.

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