Government Press Releases 1997
Ireland welcomes the Special European Council which has been convened to discuss Employment creation in Europe. The 1996 Irish Presidency of the European Union placed the highest priority on Employment and the 1996 December Dublin European Council adopted the Dublin Declaration on Employment - The Jobs Challenge.
The social partners have access to the Government through a range of monitoring mechanisms, which deal with strategic issues and specific commitments. In addition, the social partners participate in a variety of working groups on long-term policy issues. This provision for consultation and consensual decision-making, is now an accepted basis for policy formulation throughout the public sector.
The Government today appointed Mr. Dermot Gallagher, former Ambassador in Washington, to be Second Secretary at the Department of Foreign Affairs, in charge of the Anglo-Irish Division.
Among the matters that will be discussed will be the outlook for Agenda 2000 which includes the Enlargement of the Union and the next round of Financial Perspectives including expenditure on the Structural Funds and the Common Agricultural Policy.The Special European Council on Employment which is to be held in Luxembourg on 20th November will also be discussed at the meeting as will the general priorities of the Luxembourg Presidency.
President Mary Robinson has represented the people of Ireland with the greatest distinction for almost seven years now, in what was, by common consent, an outstandingly successful term of office. Our very best good wishes go with her as she takes up her new and challenging role as United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights next September.
As Chairman of the Irish Government's 1798 Commemoration Committee, it gives me great pleasure to be here in London tonight. I want to assure you that the Taoiseach and the new Government are fully determined to actively develop the commemorative programme
The Government today announced the establishment of a Group to examine Basic Income proposals, which will operate under the aegis of the Taoiseach's Department. The establishment of this Group meets a commitment which was made in Partnership 2000.
Following their meetings of 26 June, 1 July and 8 July 1997 the Government today appointed the Ministers of State.
The Irish Government extends its best wishes for the future well-being of the new Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) and its people in China. It is confident that China will treat the SAR in accordance with its obligations and undertakings, especially its undertaking to replace the Provisional Legislative Council through new elections within twelve months.