Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 78: To ask the Taoiseach the number of meetings he has had with non-governmental organisations on matters related to public policy formulation and implementation during 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16270/05]

Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)
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In the course of my work, I meet many organisations regarding various aspects of Government policy, although individual Ministers have primary responsibility to meet the organisations relevant to their own areas.

I would estimate that I meet with approximately two such organisations on average each week although the number of meetings in 2004 was lower due to other commitments associated with Ireland's EU Presidency in the first half of the year. It would not be practical for me to list in this answer all the groups with whom I met during 2004 but it would include, for example, organisations such as the social partners, community groups, industry representatives, educational institutions and international organisations. I also meet the NGO aid organisations from time to time, for example, following the tsunami disaster in south-east Asia. In addition to formal meetings, I meet continually with a broad range of groups and individuals in the course of my various engagements.