Geraldine Feeney (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach. I am happy to allow my colleague Senator Kate Walsh to get some oxygen while I use my few minutes. I welcome the Minister of State and the Bill. The National Economic and Social Development Office will be established under the terms of the National Economic and Social Development Bill. The new office will incorporate three bodies, the National Economic and Social Council, the National Economic and Social Forum and the National Council for Partnership and Performance. When enacted, the Bill will place the three constituent bodies on a statutory basis as part of the National Economic and Social Development Office. It will also be responsible for other such bodies that may be established in the future by the Taoiseach or his office.

I would like to speak on the body of which I am a member, the National and Economic Social Forum. This body is chaired by Dr. Maureen Gaffney.