Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 277: To ask the Minister for Social Protection if she will continue the practice of quarterly round table discussions with the voluntary pillar of the national partnership agreement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11617/11]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Government acknowledges the vital role of the community and voluntary sector working in partnership with local communities, State agencies and local authorities. The Government is committed to tackling Ireland's economic crisis in a way that is fair, balanced and which recognises the need for social solidarity and it values dialogue with the representatives of the voluntary and community sector in that regard. This dialogue continues to take place in different ways and through different fora across Government Departments and agencies, for example at the National Economic and Social Council. The question of whether and how this dialogue with the social partners could be enhanced has not yet been decided but in the meantime, I have met members of the community and voluntary sector since becoming Minister and will continue to do so as policy and administrative issues of interest to the sector come up for consideration.