Our programme for the '80's  FIANNA FAIL MANIFESTO 1981  THE REPUBLICAN PARTY  Our Programme  The Fianna Fail programme for the Eighties covers every aspect of our national life. It is designed to develop the full potential of our national resources in order to improve conditions and raise living standards for every section of the community.  Many of these policies are already being implemented and others are getting under way. They will be reinforced and supplemented by additional measures and programmes as needs and circumstances require.  Fianna Fail has always been in the vanguard of economic and social progress. Our policies for the eighties are concerned with the shape of the nation as a whole, the standards and services and the quality of life our people will enjoy.  By the implementation of this programme we are determined to create the conditions in which all Irish men and women will have available to them in their own counts, cultural, social and economic opportunities and standards equal to those available anywhere.  Northern Ireland  Our Objectives  Our first political priority is the achievement, by political means, of a united Ireland, in harmony and in peace.  We believe that we will not achieve the level of economic and social progress to which we aspire as long as the Northern Ireland question remains unresolved. Recent events have dramatically proved that we are right in regarding Northern Ireland as the most urgent political problem and in seeking a solution to it as a matter of very great urgency. Through the search for a political solution of the underlying problem, through security measures and through efforts to effect a humanitarian solution of the hunger strikes of recent months, the Government have sought to end violence, avoid deaths and injuries, ease tension and bring about a lasting peace based on justice for all.  We have made clear from the outset our belief that Northern Ireland has failed as a political entity and that attempts to bring about a settlement solely within a Northern Ireland context could not succeed. The Taoiseach has asserted that it was essential to raise the problem to a new intergovernmental plane. That objective has been achieved. At the meeting with the British Prime Minister in Dublin last December there was agreement on the need to bring forward policies and proposals to achieve peace, reconciliation and stability and to improve relations. joint studies were commissioned and are proceeding on a number of key issues including possible new institutional structures, security matters and economic co-operation. These studies represent the first steps in a process which will help the two governments to see in a clearer light the possibility of a solution based on new political arrangements acceptable to all traditions.  The Government have made extensive and successful efforts to secure support internationally for this new and hopeful approach towards resolving the northern problem. It enjoys the full support of the SDLP in Northern Ireland and has been welcomed by world leaders in Europe, the United States and elsewhere.  The continuing success of the Government's efforts to develop the economy is helping to make Irish unity a more attractive prospect, economically, for all the people of the country. Particular emphasis has been given to cross-border economic cooperation with significant results.  In relation to the hunger strikes, the Government have done everything they could that was likely to be effective in resolving the situation and preventing loss of life inside or outside the prison. They have urged their humanitarian concern on the British Government and urged on all concerned the view that every effort should be made to resolve the situation through a flexible application of the prison rules.  The Future  A Fianna Fail Government, conscious of the urgency of a just and lasting peace, will press forward the political process now in train towards that end.  A Fianna Fail Government will promote and uphold the rights of all minorities and safeguard and guarantee the interests of all the different traditions in Ireland.  A Fianna Fail Government will continue its efforts to bring about a humanitarian resolution of the situation at Long Kesh and to avoid further loss of life.  A Fianna Fail Government will act firmly and resolutely to defeat those who avail of the instability of Northern Ireland to seek by violent means to overthrow democratic institutions and the rule of law in this part of Ireland.  Our ambition is to make participation in a new Ireland the most attractive basis for political, economic, social and cultural for all the people of Ireland.  Economic Policy and Planning  The Government's economic policy has been to bring the economy safely through the recession while pursuing the fundamental long-term objective of expanding and developing the economy so as to provide better living standards for all. We believe that the present development level of the economy can be greatly raised by sound economic policies and by coherent economic planning. The need to continue to develop our economy is particularly urgent because of the unprecedented increase in our population and, therefore, in the number needing jobs.  The Government's economic policy has, therefore, been based on a comprehensive and coherent series of objectives:  - to increase the rate of economic growth;  - to make the necessary investments to achieve faster economic growth;  - to expand and improve our productive capacity in industry and agriculture;  - to modernise and make more efficient the economic infrastructure on which our economy depends;  - to provide sufficient employment to absorb our growing labour force;  - to increase the rate of regional development so as to mobilise all national resources for economic and social progress;  - to provide throughout the country the technological and scientific skills required by modern industry and agriculture;  - to improve our scientific and technological resources generally so as to develop fully our natural resources;  - to maintain the credit and standing of our currency;  - to moderate the effects of world inflation on our economy;  - to maintain our balance of payments within sustainable limits-  - to reform the taxation svstem so that it is more equitable and gives more incentive to enterprise and effort;  - to provide a coherent planning framework for the implementation of economic policy;  - to ensure that the expansion of the economy and employment is maintained even in times of recession;  The Government's economic strategy has been successful in achieving these objectives despite the special difficulties caused by the recession. The economy over the past four years has grown by over 15.7% and by an annual average of 3.7%. This is the fastest rate of economic growth in the entire European Community.  Our economy will continue to grow this year - by about 22% - while the economy of the European Community as a whole will decline. These comparisons show that we have defended our economy better against the effects of the world recession than any of our Community partners. We are, as a result, coming out of the recession with a greatly enlarged and expanded economic capacity as a result of the positive economic policies of the Government.  The exceptional rate of economic growth achieved has been due to the policy of the Government to raise substantially the rate of investment in our economy. Over the past four years we have been investing about 30% of GNP, by far the highest investment rate we have ever made in the development of our economy. It is the highest investment rate in the Western World except for Japan. It increases productive capacity, enlarges and makes more efficient the economic infrastructure and provides essential social capital. Without this high investment our economy would stagnate. We would be unable to provide sufficient new jobs for our young people and our living standards would sharply decline.  We have brought about this high investment rate by enlarging the public capital programme and by providing the facilities and services to attract and encourage private investment.  A recent survey showed that Ireland is now regarded by overseas investors as the most attractive European location for industrial investment. New opportunities have been provided to private sector funds to participate in the provision of economic and social infrastructure. Under the Investment Plan for 1981, £1,700 million is being invested in the economy, the highest investment ever made in the development of the economy in a single year. This expansion of investment and of the economy is being financed through the mobilisation of domestic and international resources.  Without borrowing, an economy, at our stage of development, cannot be expanded.  In relation to our growing earning capacity and exceptional rate of economic growth the level of borrowing is not excessive. Repayments on foreign borrowing represent less than 5% of our foreign earnings and less than 3% of our gross national product. Because of our basic capacity for economic growth Ireland enjoys the highest credit rating with all international banking and financial institutions.  The development of a modern technologically-advanced industrial base is being achieved by increased provision of industrial grants, by better tax incentives, by providing an extensive network of advance factories and industrial estates and by increased aid to scientific research and development. Last year industrial investment was the highest in our history. This industrial investment is providing new jobs in record numbers in new industries based on advanced technology and science including electronics, computers, chemicals, health care and engineering.  The successful measures to promote manufacturing industry have also stimulated the growth of the services sector of the economy. The development of manufacturing and service industry has provided new jobs in unprecedented numbers.  Between April 1977 and April 1980 employment has increased by 80,000.  Despite the recession 30,000 new jobs were provided in 1980 and, in this year, the number will rise to 40,000. The record numbers of new jobs have helped to protect our level of employment against the effects of the recession.  Unemployment has risen in the last year mainly because new jobs have been offset by temporary job losses in older industries vulnerable in the restricted and more competitive market conditions created by the recession. Unemployment has now begun to stabilise as new jobs in new industries come on stream and as the older industries begin to recover as we emerge from the recession. Special measures have been taken to protect employment in the older industries. These include grants and tax concessions to aid restructuring and re-equipment, State investment in companies requiring financial assistance and the provision of low-interest loans. The particularly vulnerable industries of clothing, textiles, footwear and leather, have benefitted from special employment contributions arranged with other employers.  Within the European Monetary System the credit and standing of our currency has been maintained because of the underlying growth and strength of our economy's capacity. The effects of world inflation on the family and on the economy have been reduced by progressive Social Welfare policies, by consumer subsidies and by tax concessions. Through the exceptional expansion of exports and through import substitution measures the balance of payments deficit has been kept within sustainable limits. Our exports have increased in the last four years from £1,859 million to £4,134 million, a rate of increase above that of the OECD and EEC averages. Special measures have been taken to manufacture in Ireland the components and products required by new industries.  All oil importing countries are currently suffering high balance of payments deficits. Our deficit last year was roughly equivalent to our oil import bill. The European Commission has emphasised that the adjustment of external deficits, due mainly to the increase costs of oil, can only take place gradually if economies are not to be plunged into deeper recession. The level of interest rates has been kept among the lowest in the European Community. Mortgage interest rates have been subsidised where necessary and special low-interest loans have been made available to industry and agriculture.  Measures have been taken to increase the productivity and prosperity of agriculture. This has ensured rising living standards for our farmers and ended the steep decline in farming employment so characteristic of previous periods.  So that our growing labour force will possess the skills necessary in a more developed economy, our scientific, technological, management, training and education facilities have been greatly expanded. Even the most advanced scientific industry is now able to find the skilled manpower to enable it locate in Ireland.  Over half the jobs now being provided in new industry are in domestic firms based on our own developing technological and entrepreneurial resources. The National Board for Science and Technology has been established to develop in coordination with the State research and development agencies a national programme for scientific and technological development. This programme is particularly concerned with the development of our national resources.  The Government's economic policy is implemented in a framework of economic planning and development which matches our resources coherently with our needs and opportunities. It is this coherent economic planning which has enabled us to provide record levels of new jobs and to achieve the highest economic growth rate in the Community over the past four years.  There are those who maintain that there is little this country can do to influence its economic destiny because of the small size of our economy and our dependence on foreign trade. We do not share that view. Our Investment Plan for 1981 provides the planning framework for the measures we are taking to maintain the momentum of the economy despite the world recession.  This Plan, prepared after consultation with the social partners, represents a comprehensive series of inter-linked and carefully planned investments. As a logical extension of the Investment Plan, we will shortly publish a longer-term comprehensive economic and social development plan which will provide the framework and focus for the growth and expansion of the economy in the coming years. This plan will ensure that the achievements of 1981 are built on and, as the world recession ends, a firm foundation provided for further rapid overall growth and an acceleration to an even higher level in the number of new jobs created each year. It will concentrate on a vigorous and programmed expansion of the productive base of the economy with particular emphasis on industry, agriculture and tourism. It will continue the expansion of infrastructural development in line with the Investment Plan 1981. Within the framework of the Plan, social investment will be greatly increased.  Industry and Jobs  During the past four years the Government have devoted special attention to industrial expansion. The result has been a new dynamism in the provision of many more jobs both in industry and in the modern service activity needed to support rapid industrial development.  Since 1977 the major achievements speak for themselves. Between 1977 and 1980 total employment has increased by a record 80,000 compared with the highest three year total of only 18,000 between 1961 and 1964.  A total of 40,000 new jobs will be provided this year.  These jobs will come, mainly, from technologically-advanced and science-based industries which give high earnings and the assurance of permanent employment. In the electronics industry alone employment has doubled since 1977. Between now and 1985 it will increase two-fold. The Government's job creation record is soundly based on their commitment to increasing investment.  Past investment has led to a doubling of industrial production, manufacturing in exports increasing two and a half times since 1977. Because of Government policies on industrial grants, taxation and training, industrial investment this year will reach an all time high record.  Because of Government action the future of industry in Ireland has been assured. Ireland is now regarded as the most attractive European location for industrial investment. We have the largest share of Japanese investment in Europe. Most telling of all are the results of the recent survey which showed that three-quarters of foreign firms intend to increase even further their investment in Ireland. The Government have shown their special concern for the development of a strong domestic Irish business sector. Again, the record since 1977 speaks for itself. Over 68% of total IDA job approvals now come from domestic sources.  Small industry approvals have been substantially increased and a new enterprise development programme has been funding young Irish businessmen with sound ideas for profitable new projects. The new 10% rate of Corporation Tax from January 1st this year will give a particular incentive to further domestic investment.  The Government have also acted to ensure that the scientific, technological and training resources for rapid industrial development are provided. Under the coordination of the National Board of Science and Technology, our scientific and technological resources have been expanded by the State Research and Development Agencies.  Our industrial programmes have also been greatly expanded. ANCO's funding has been increased from £15 million in 1977 to nearly £40 million in 1980. Since 1977, ANCO training premiums of £13.4 million have been paid to 4,500 employers covering a total of over 27,000 additional employees.  For rapid industrial growth expanding market opportunities are essential. Here again the Government have acted to ensure the continuing development of Irish firms. The funding of Córas Tráchtála (CTT) has been substantially increased. Grants schemes have been further improved and group promotion programmes have been stopped up to the highest level in the history of CTT. The result can be seen in the growth of 22% a year in our exports. To ensure the home market for Irish products, the Irish Goods Council has increased participation in the "Guaranteed Irish" scheme to cover 90% of firms producing consumer goods. Import substitution efforts on all fronts have meant that over £100 million of new business has gone to Irish manufacturers in the last two years.  During the past four years the transition of the Irish economy into the new industrial age has been given a new momentum so as to expand export activities and to support the efforts of all those participating in industrial enterprise. With some of the most modern techniques in Europe, with a solid base established for the new growth industries of chemicals, electronics, and pharmaceuticals, the results of this effort can now be clearly seen. We now have an economy which provides challenging and worthwhile employment opportunities for our rapidly growing young population, an economy in which young Irishmen can experience the best international management practices and technological developments; an economy in which they arc being encouraged to set up their own companies and to develop overseas markets for new and innovative products.  To ensure that that momentum is sustained the Government have taken a number of very important steps. The new Sectoral Development Committee, representing Trade Unions, Employers and Government Agencies, is exploring the full potential for growth of all sectors of industry. So that the combined expertise of employers, trade unions and Government can develop new commercially profitable projects particularly in natural resources, the Government have established a National Enterprise Agency to utilise to the full our domestic research, scientific and technological resources. A further scheme of employment aid by employers in the textile, clothing, footwear and leather industries has also been introduced.  Finally the Government are committed to the introduction of a new dynamic industrial development policy in the light of the recommendations of the National Economic and Social Council. At the request of the Government the Council has undertaken an in-depth study of the requirements necessary to accelerate Irish industrial development in the 1980s.  Regional Development  Fianna Fail believe that overall national economic progress can best be achieved by the comprehensive development of every region of the country. By improving the economic infrastructure of the regions, by improving their efficiency and by increasing their productive capacity we will achieve greater total national development.  We have won special recognition from the European Community for our policy of accelerating regional development. We have made special arrangements with the Community under which grants from the Regional Fund to our regional industrial and infrastructure programmes have been greatly increased. Last year we obtained over £46 million and this year we will obtain over £50 million from the Regional Fund as compared with only £8 million in 1976. We have also negotiated greatly increased allocations from the Community's Social Fund to accelerate our regional technological training programmes. This year our allocations from the Social Fund will amount to over £70 million as compared with only £l3 million in 1976. By our regional development policies we are mobilising the talents of all communities, large and small, throughout the country for national progress and advancement.  Our regional policies enable the economy to be developed at lower overall cost than policies which concentrate development in a few favoured places. Excessive concentration increases development costs, creates uneconomic and environmentally-damaging congestion and, by encouraging migration, adds to expenditure in new social capital. Our policies, by retaining population and improving economic and social opportunities in the regions, bring a new vitality to communities which heretofore have suffered population decline and economic and social deprivation. The cultural and social life of the nation is enriched and enlivened by the resultant renewed diversity and vitality of local and regional cultures.  The success of the government's regional policy is clear. Population is increasing now in all urban areas and in the great majority of rural areas. New technologically advanced industry has been established in all regions. The economic structure of all regions is being changed fundamentally to give the wider economic and social opportunities formerly available only in the larger centres. Differences in income between regions have been significantly narrowed. A comprehensive and coherent series of measures have been taken to ensure this economic and social transformation in every region.  Investment in the regions has been greatly increased. The Investment Plan for 1981, which raises overall investment by one-third, is the largest regional investment  programme in our history. Telecommunications, roads and sanitary services which are the essential basis for increased regional economic activity and efficiency are being rapidly improved under the Investment Plan. Investment in industrialisation of the regions last year was the highest ever in our history. The Investment Plan for 1981 provides for even larger investment in regional industrialisation.  An industrial development plan is being implemented for each region based on advance construction of factories and provision of modern fully-equipped industrial estates. Employment in the services sector in the regions is being rapidly expanded.  The Government have initiated a new programme to transfer major sections of the public service from Dublin to the regions. This year construction will commence on Government Offices in twelve towns throughout the country to which Civil Service sections employing nearly 3,500 persons will be transferred. These measures will give young people for the first time full opportunity to obtain Civil Service posts in their own regions. This will add significantly to the economic and social diversity of life in the regions. Our policy is to ensure that public administrative posts are distributed equitably throughout the country and that local involvement in public administration is increased.  Employment grants are being made which will encourage the development of private sector service industry in the regions. Our regional development policies include the many measures to ensure a prosperous and progressive agriculture, to raise living standards in the regions and to provide rewarding and permanent employment in farming.  The technological skills of the regions arc being improved to keep pace with the demands of modern industry and agriculture. The Regional Technical Colleges and other higher institutes, the Universities, the ANCO industrial training centres and ACOT training and education services have been enlarged and expanded to enable the regions to raise their levels of technological and scientific skill.  The Public Service  Policy Objectives  The Government are committed to creating a modern, efficient and responsive public administration which really serves the public. The size of the public service and its remuneration must be kept in proportion to the resources of the community, but in a country with expanding needs, a growing population and a demand for higher standards of service, an indiscriminate freeze on public service recruitment or pay would lead to a deterioration in the quality of the public service as well as being contrary to the Government's employment objectives.  The Government are committed to a policy of decentralising Civil Service posts so that this type of employment is available in centres throughout the country.  Progress achieved  - Appointments of young people to the Civil Service nearly doubled from 4,989 in 1977 to 9,629 in 1979.  - Preparations for the transfer of over 3,300 Civil Service posts to 12 provincial centres are well advanced;  - a programme of implementing a target of 3% for the employment of disabled persons in the public service is being carried out;  - a streamlining of management and a clearer division between policy-making and executive functions is being introduced in Government Departments. Computer services in the Department of the Public Service and other Government Departments have been introduced so as to provide major improvements in administrative efficiency;  - an Ombudsman is to be appointed who will act as an effective source of appeal for members of the public;  - the Government have acted as a good employer in the public service. The standard terms of the national pay agreements and understandings have been awarded to all public service staff, including Gardai, teachers and nurses. In addition, the Government have honoured all special pay increases awarded to public servants by arbitrators and other independent bodies.  Further measures being taken  - Administrative Officer posts open to graduates and serving Civil Servants will be created in all Government Departments;  - further decentralisation of Government Offices will be undertaken, once the current phase is complete;  - greater mobility within the Service and between the public and private sectors will be encouraged;  - the Government will promote the spirit of commercial enterprise in semi-State bodies and encourage them to play a more active role in future development.  Industrial Relations and the safety and Welfare of Employees  The Government has pursued a policy of dialogue and partnership with employers and trade unions, in order to secure industrial peace and progress. The two National Understandings represent a major social advance by providing a broad and comprehensive framework in which agreement on economic and social progress can be reached. A major improvement in the over-all industrial relations climate has been achieved.  A major reduction has taken place in the level of industrial disputes. Days lost in 1980 were half the 1976 level and the figures for the first quarter of 1981 show the favourable trend continued into this year. The Government supports, in the strongest possible terms, progressive labour policies embracing employers, trade unions, and all other consultative bodies. Such policies are a prerequisite for the success of the economy, and their formation and implementation has been a major element of Government strategy for future development.  As part of Government policy the Taoiseach and the Minister for Labour have regular meetings with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions at which economic development, employment, labour relations and other issues are discussed in a constructive and friendly atmosphere. An extra Division of the Labour Court was recently appointed, and as a result the time lags between the referral of cases and hearings and between hearings and recommendations has been cut. The Court has also been able to deal with a greatly expanded work load. This new development has been welcomed by employers and trade unions alike.  In 1980 the Government set up a Commission to enquire into the whole field of safety, health and welfare at work and to make recommendations on any new legislation required.  The National Manpower Service has been greatly expanded over the past four years. In July 1977 there were 26 Manpower Offices throughout the country with a staff of 100. Today there are offices in 39 cities and towns nationwide with total staff in the region of 300. There are also 60 part-time offices in smaller towns and the Occupational Guidance Section has been doubled in the same period. The future role of the Manpower Service will be further expanded and enhanced. A Manpower Consultative Committee of Trade Unionists, Employers, Representatives of Government Departments and other interested parties was set up. Under the chairmanship of the Minister for Labour the Committee identified a shortage of skilled key workers as being one of the most important factors impeding industrial expansion.  Other steps taken by the Government to improve industrial relations included:  - the full implementation of worker participation by the Government in designated State enterprises, and the encouragement of worker participation throughout industry.  - the preparation of a draft voluntary code of practice on the disclosure of company information for discussion designed to improve trade union and employee knowledge of company affairs and to facilitate collective bargaining.  - the introduction of regulations protecting the right of employees on the transfer of a business in which they are employed to new ownership.  - a Commission to enquire into industrial relations - publication of its report is imminent.  - substantially increased grants to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions Education, Training and Advisory Services.  It will continue to be the policy of Fianna Fail to expand further activities that will be of assistance to employers and trade unions alike. There will be full consultation on matters of mutual interest, on legislation and measures to assist in the advancement of the economy as a whole.  Taxation  In regard to personal taxation the Government's objective is to ensure that each individual will pay a fair and reasonable amount of tax having regard to his or her circumstances and no more. Our aim is to establish an equitable system of taxation which will provide the necessary revenue, and at the same time give an incentive to work, to investment and to savings.  As evidence of' the Government's determination to achieve these objectives, a Commission on Taxation representative of all tax-paying interests, was set up in April 1980, to carry out a comprehensive review of the taxation system. The Commission are expected to report before the end of 1981.  We have eliminated many inequitable features of the tax system, and are committed to continue this process.  The total cost of income tax reliefs provided by the Government between 1978 and 1981 is about £500 million. If these reliefs had not been introduced, income tax payers would now be paying about 50 per cent more tax.  The Income Tax Allowance for married couples was raised to double the single person's allowance in 1978. In addition, 750,000 people have benefited from the special allowance of £600 introduced for PAYE taxpayers.  Full equality of treatment for married couples was achieved in 1980, so that a married couple are now taxed on the same basis as two single persons. This has brought substantial savings to married taxpayers. This year a married couple earning £4,000 or less pay no tax; the comparable figure in 1977 was £840.  For the first time total exemption was introduced in 1980 for all those on low incomes. An additional special provision was also introduced for the elderly.  A number of important beneficial changes were made in Capital Gains Tax. Most of the thresholds for Capital Acquisitions Tax were doubled, and the special agricultural relief for farmer beneficiaries was increased by 50 per cent. Wealth tax was abolished. The Government will not introduce penal forms of taxation which discourage investment and reduce the volume of funds needed for productive purposes. We introduced, with effect from the beginning of this year, a special low rate of Corporation Tax of 10% for manufacturing industry which applies to profits whether earned on home or export markets. This is a very valuable incentive which will stimulate the creation and expansion of greater investment and more jobs.  Rates on private houses were abolished in 1978, bringing a saving to the average householder of between £250 and £400 a year.  In the interests of tax payers generally strong measures are being taken to combat tax evasion. Special enquiry units were set up during 1979 for this purpose and these succeeded in identifying 14,500 new cases up to the end of 1980. So as to ensure that the tax burden is fairly shared by all, the staff of the Revenue Commissioners has been significantly increased.  Fianna Fail accept that the burden of personal taxation paid by some sections, notably the PAYE sector, is too heavy, and they intend to continue to reduce the impact of direct personal taxation as economic and financial circumstances improve.  Price Control and Consumer Protection  Fianna Fail are deeply conscious of the basic importance to families of the prices charged for essential goods and services. By the strict enforcement of price control and the provision of subsidies the Government have acted to protect the housewife and the family from the worst reflects of the increase of prices caused mainly by the price of oil and world inflation.  To keep down domestic inflation the Government have pursued a pay policy which strikes a fair balance between protecting living standards and paying what firms and the public service can reasonably and competitively afrord. They have also taken major steps to safeguard the position of the consumer through new legislation.  Under the impact of the massive increase in oil prices, inflation rose to 18.2% in 1980 but is now being brought down again, and the annualised rate of inflation from May 1981 onwards will be in the order of 10-12%. The Government's resolve to reduce the rate of inflation was given effect to by the recent introduction of special additional consumer subsidies. The Government is by this means seeking to accelerate the downward trend in inflation. They will continue to act to ensure this trend continues and by taxation policy, by intensified import substitution, and by energy conservation, to reduce the impact of imported inflation. The National Prices Commission has had a significant impact in moderating the rate of inflation. Over the past 4 years they have dealt with over 1,700 applications and reduced the level applied for in 50% of cases. In 1980 alone, the Commission saved the consumer from over £125 million of proposed price increases.  The Government have introduced a continued flow of important legislation which will safeguard the rights of consumers, especially the Consumer Information Act, the Occasional Trading Act and the Sale and Supply of Services Act. Further legislation will be enacted as necessary to ensure that consumers' rights are fully protected.  Agriculture  Fianna Fail believe that a prosperous and expanding agriculture is vital to national economic growth. Our policy has been, and will continue to be, directed towards maximising farm output, increasing exports and expanding employment on the land and in related industries. In this way we will improve the incomes and living standards of farmers and the viability of family farms.  Fianna Fill are committed to full consultation and close co-operation with the farm organisations in working out agricultural policy and planning future development. The Government have had an unprecedented level of consultation with the farm organisations in the past few years.  Our agricultural objectives are directed primarily to ensuring higher incomes and living standards for farmers through:  - expanding the national livestock herd;  - increasing the area under tillage;  - modernising our agricultural production and marketing systems;  - introducing a comprehensive new land policy;  - developing our national food industry;  - ensuring high quality home-produced foodstuffs for Irish consumers  - improving the educational, research, advisory and other services to farmers.  Fianna Fail is fully committed to the Common Agricultural Policy of the EEC. This Policy has been the basis of our greatly improved rural prosperity of recent vears. It will continue to be the aim of the Fianna Fail Government to ensure that the basic principles of this Policy are strengthened and fullv implemented. The Government have already achieved major improvements in this Policy for the benefit of Irish farmers. We successfully opposed suggested changes, such as a super levy on milk, which would have damaged the CAP and seriously weakened its advantages for Ireland.  Fianna Fail Achievements  EEC Farm Package  Despite the grave economic problems in Europe we negotiated major price improvements and a series of special measures for Ireland which no other Member State of the EEC has secured. The increases in support prices this year average over 13%. On top of this we secured a special £50m. package covering livestock improvement, lime, silage and A.I. subsidies and higher grants for beef cows. The EEC have also undertaken to provide further help for Ireland by mid-July and work on this is already well advanced in Brussels.  A comprehensive market system for sheepmeat has been negotiated to give sheep producers assured price support and free access to the European market. The Disadvantaged Areas have been extended and livestock headage grants have been substantially increased.  New Deal for Western Farmers  A new deal for Western farmers was also negotiated. The major benefits secured are:  - comprehensive drainage measures, including both farm and arterial drainage;  - improvements in the basic services of water supply, electricity and roads;  - on-farm improvements aimed at raising the incomes of small Western farmers;  - additional facilities for agricultural education and training;  - higher grants for marketing and processing of farm products;  - aid for calf-to-beef production;  - commonage improvement;  - forestry development.  Direct Government Aid  Having fully recognised the difficulties being encountered by farmers over the past two years the Government, in consultation with the farm organisations, took major steps to help farmers to overcome these difficulties and to improve their economic and social position. A series of measures was introduced in the autumn of 1980 at a cost of £40m. including:  - a new winter fodder scheme to encourage silage making and the use of fertilisers;  - a new suckler scheme to expand the beef herd;  - an additional £23m. for the Farm Modernisation Scheme;  - the removal of the second moiety of 1980 rates on medium-sized farmers (small farmers were already receiving substantial relief on their rates bills);  - special arrangements through the banks and the ACC to help farmers in financial difficulty;  - increases of up to 100% in grants under the cattle and sheep headage schemes.  Further support for the farming industry was provided in the 1981 Budget:  - full relief from rates for all farmers under £5O R.V. and halving of rates on farmers of £50 - £70 R.V.;  - abolition of resource tax;  - suspension of levies for disease eradication;  - adjustment of the tax code to encourage investment in livestock;  - aid for the seed potato industry.  Recently further new measures to expand livestock numbers and increase output were announced:  - a grant of £60 for each additional calved heifer. A beef farmer qualifying for the headage grants in the Disadvantaged Areas will now be able to get as much as £119 in respect of an additional calved heifer while a beef farmer elsewhere will be able to get £87 extra. These compare with 1980 rates of £30 in the Disadvantaged Areas and £13 in other areas;  - a fertiliser subsidy aimed at encouraging grass production;  - further aid for farmers who made silage for the first time in 1980.  Disease Eradication  - greatly intensified measures to improve the health status of our national herd, resulting in dramatic reductions in the incidence of livestock diseases.  ACOT  - the rationalisation of the agricultural advisory, training and educational services under a new authority - ACOT.  New Land Policy  - the launching of a new land policy designed to promote the more efficient use of land and meet the needs of the progressive small farmer.  Marketing  - the strengthening of CBF, the Pigs and Bacon Commission and An Bord Bainne develop exports of the livestock, meat and dairy products.  Credit  - the expansion of credit facilities for farm development through the Agricultural Credit Corporation.  All these measures taken by the Government show our commitment to a thriving agricultural sector and the full development of the potential of the country's soil resources. Since last autumn the total value of the new measures introduced by the Government and the improvements negotiated in Brussels amount to as much as £300m. These improvements will generate a substantial increase in farm incomes this year and are a positive indication of Fianna Fail's determination to promote agricultural development and help farmers to overcome the difficulties caused by the economic recession.  Fianna Fail Plans for the Future  The strong commitment already shown by the Fianna Fiil Government to the agricultural sector will continue to underlie our policy in the coming years. In particular, we will continue to work at home and in the EEC to bring about:  - the further improvement of farm incomes;  - the raising of the living standards of farm families;  - the expansion of farm output;  - more jobs in food processing industries.  In addition Fianna Fail in Government will:  - introduce a scheme of interest rate subsidies to aid farmers especially those in financial difficulties;  - implement the new land policy to ensure the viability of the family farm and the encouragement of younger progressive farmers;  - continue to work in the EEC for the full development of the Common Agricultural Policy and the availability of adequate finance for it;  - negotiate further special EEC help for Ireland;  - seek an extension of the Western Drainage Scheme to meet the needs of farmers in the Western counties;  - take steps to increase the processing of domestic farm produce;  - continue to ensure that Irish consumers are supplied with home-produced food of the highest quality at reasonable prices;  - to promote the marketing of Irish agricultural products at home and abroad.  Fisheries  Policy Objectives  It is Fianna Fail policy to achieve the modernisation of the Irish fishing fleet and a major expansion of the fish processing industry, within the framework of an EEC Common Fisheries Policy, and to provide a secure and prosperous living for Irish fishermen.  Progress Achieved  Landings of fish in Irish ports by Irish registered vessels have increased by 64% since 1977, and exports of fish have more than doubled. The Hague Agreement target for doubling our catch was reached in 1980. The number of boats has increased from 2,700 to 3,000 in the same period, and the number of full-time fishermen has risen from 2,600 to 3,500, an increase of 31 %. This year £17.2 million is being invested as part of the plan for the expansion of the fishing industry. This expansion has been achieved at a time when the fishing effort in other member States is contracting. EEC funds are being received for purchasing new boats, for Irish fish farming projects and for compensation for unsold fish. Training facilities for fishermen have been expanded. Major investment has taken place at the five chief fishery harbours at Killybegs, Castletownbere, Howth, Dunmore East and Rossaveal.  The Fishery Protection Service has been strengthened. Since 1978, fines of up to £100,000 and forfeitures of catch and gear by foreign vessels can be imposed. 78 prosecutions have been brought under the law against skippers of foreign vessels. Improved conservation measures designed - to protect the interests of Irish fishermen have been introduced. £4 million in State aid is being made available for the establishment of fish processing enterprises.  The Fisheries Act, 1980, setting up the Central Fisheries Board and seven Regional Fisheries Boards, provided a new regime for the conservation, management, and development of valuable inland fisheries. The Galway Fishery was acquired by the State in 1978, and the Cong Salmon Hatchery has recently been extended. Negotiations are well advanced for the acquisition of Clarenbridge Oyster Beds for the nation. Special measures were taken to transport slurry from the Lough Sheelin catchment area, so as to protect a valuable trout fishery. 15 fish farms have been constructed since 1977 with technical advice and State aid for the cultivation of salmon and trout.  Further measures being taken  Fianna Fail will continue to seek a reserved coastal zone exclusive to our fishermen and will insist on quotas in accordance with the spirit of the commitments made to Ireland by her EEC partners which will provide further opportunities for expansion.  The Government will also continue to press at EEC level for improved marketing arrangements, so as to provide safeguards against Third Country imports and to ensure adequate incomes for Irish fishermen. In the interim the introduction of a fish price subsidy scheme is being considered.  The Government will in conjunction with BIM consider arrangements to deal with arrears of repayments on fishing boat loans and will seek further Community aid for the restructuring of the fishing fleet and the development of fish farming. Important improvement works are to be undertaken at smaller harbours, such as Greencastle, Burtonport, Schull and Portevlin. New helicopters and vessels are being provided with EEC aid for fishery protection. A new fisheries research vessel is being built at Verolme Dockyard and this is backed by a new Fisheries Research Centre at Abbotstown.  The Government will continue to consult closely with all Irish fishing interests so as to help achieve common aims of security and prosperity for fishermen and promote the development of the industry in the interests of the nation.  Forestry and Wildlife  Policy Objectives  Fianna Fail is committed to expand forestry production and to provide for our own needs from home grown timber.  Progress Achieved  An extra 36,500 acres were acquired in the three-year period 1978 to 1980, and about 76,000 acres have been planted since 1977. There is now a total of 244 State forests embracing over 900,000 acres, employing nearly 4,000 people.  The State has taken a major share in the chipboard factory at Scarriff to provide an outlet for thinnings and to help sustain employment. A new fibreboard plant in Clonmel will be operational in 1983 and will utilisc all our available thinnings and pulpwood. This will provide five hundred extra jobs and coupled with the present optimum expansion in the sawlog sector, is proof of the success of Fianna Fail planning. The future of Irish forests is assured. Development continued in the forest parks and an additional forty areas for public amenitv and recreation were added to the existing 360 open forest areas to bring the total up to 400.  A Wildlife Advisory Service was set up in 1979 to protect flora and fauna, and a corps of 49 wildlife rangers has been appointed. Sanctuaries and nature reserves are being expanded, and negotiations have commenced for the purchase of Pollardstown Fen in Co. Kildare.  Further measures being taken  Incentives are being given to the development of forestry, particularly on marginal land in Western areas under the EEC Western Package. Private investment in forestry will accelerate in the next decade and vast new areas will become productive. The full potential of our forests is now being reallsed and utillsed, thanks to the systematic and continuing Fianna Fail commitment to forestry.  Tourism  Policy Objectives  Because of the direct importance of the industry to the economy, especially to the balance of payments, and in the creation of employment, Government policy gives a high priority to the tourist industry. Tourism earned £563 million in 1980. It provides one in every eleven jobs and has considerable potential for creating new jobs.  Progress Achieved  Since 1977 tourist numbers have increased by one-third (34%) and revenue by 73%. The Government have introduced a number of important measures to help the development of tourism and, in March 1980, appointed a Minister of State with direct responsibility for the tourist industry:  - the investment, through Bord Failte, of £29 million in promoting tourism, which resulted in cumulative foreign earnings of £l.2 billion, with a further £500 million earned in the Horne Holiday Market;  - the introduction of cross-Channel duty-free facilities;  - the introduction in 1980 of a new hotel bedroom grant scheme to meet estimated future needs;  - the introduction in 1981 of a sclf-catering scheme which will be of particular benefit to underdeveloped areas with tourism potential. Initially, this will enable the provision of 216 self-catering units;  - the doubling in 1980 of the annual fund (increased to £200,000) for the development of farmhouse, town and country home holiday accommodation and the extension of the scheme to the country at large;  - the introduction in 1978 of a 100% capital allowance for hotel developments;  - in the period 1977-1980 tourism projects (other than accommodation) have been grant-assisted by £5.7 million, which has resulted in the introduction of many new tourism facilities, including cruising and waterway facilities, historic and cultural projects, interpretative centres, equestrian, angling and other leisure facilities;  - in addition, in 1980., tourism projects were grant-assisted bv the Tripartite Committee on Employment by a further £900,000.  The Government have also acted to ensure that young people joining the tourist industry are well trained.  - by making a capital grant of £129,000 to C ERT for the development of its training centre at Roebuck, Co. Dublin;  - by enabling CERT to introduce a re-organised Regional Training Service backed up by specialists in kitchen, dining-roon, reception, housekeeping and management training;  - by increasing financial resources provided to CERT from £460,000 in 1977 to £935,000 in 1981 allowing CERT to increase the number of trainees from 3,310 in 1977 to almost 7,000 in 1981.  The Government have been successful in securing a total of £10.7 million under the European Regional Development Fund for projects in the Border areas:  - The North-West Tourism Cooperation Group was set up in 1979 to identify the tourism development and promotional needs of the combined areas of Donegal and Derry;  - The undertaking of an East Border regional study to determine the tourism potential of the area;  - The completion of the Erne Catchment Area Study;  - The introduction of the Derry-Dublin air link;  - Fostering close liaison between Bord Fdilte and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.  Further Measures  - The Government will continue to provide adequate funds to Bord Failte for the promotion of tourism to ensure the continued growth of the industry;  - The Government are committed to accelerating improvements to the infrastructure necessary for the development of tourism, such as roads, telecommunications, water and sewerage systems and regional airports;  - The Government will also continue, through capital development grant schemes, to ensure the development of necessary tourism projects and amenities;  - The Government are carrying out a review of the Regional Tourism Organisations to decide on the structures best suited to their future needs in harnessing local support;  - So as to ensure better environmental standards the Government have introduced a Litter Bill which will empower Local Authorities to alleviate this serious problem.  In addition, the Government will introduce measures to control indiscriminate development, such as the proliferation of illegal caravanning and camping sites in scenic areas.  Roads and Transport  Policy Objectives  Fianna Fail regard a choice of modern and efficient transport facilities as essential for the functioning of the economy and for the freedom and mobility of the individual. Fianna Fail's main objectives in this area are:  - to achieve an efficient, free flowing and well maintained road system into, around and between major cities, ports and towns;  - to facilitate in every way possible the movement of freight;  - to discourage heavy lorries from using residential roads and to encourage bulk traffic and dangerous goods to go by rail;  - to encourage a higher standard of vehicle maintenance and safety;  - to tackle with determination and in a planned and integrated way the problems of urban traffic and congestion, giving a new emphasis to the role of public transport;  - to provide new rolling stock, both buses and trains, for suburban and inter-city services;  - to maintain a modern access transport service by sea and air;  - to develop a network of new small airports as an innovative addition to our transport infrastructure;  - to make substantial improvements in marine safety.  Progress Achieved  The Government have already embarked on major improvements in roads and transport as an essential part of its development programme. Further substantial progress will be made over the next five years. Almost £200 million has been allocated for investment this year as part of this programme. The Transport Consultative Commission was set up in 1978 to advise the Government on the priorities in the transport area:  - The Road Development Plan for the 1980's-a milestone in road planning in Ireland and the first of its type since the foundation of the State-provides for major road improvements costing a total of £1,500 million. Full support for the Plan is provided in the Government's 1981 Investment Plan. The £87 million in road grants allocated to local authorities this year brings investment in our road network to a new level and contrasts with total allocations of only £68 million in the Coalition's last three years;  - Major improvements are taking place on improvements to trunk roads such as the Naas by-pass, the Cork-Mallow road and the Donegal-Ballyshannon road. Work is proceeding on ring roads, bridges and urban clearways in Dublin, Limerick, Cork, Galway, Athlone and other provincial towns;  - Private sector involvement in the provision of roads has been facilitated by the enactment of the local Government (Toll Roads) Act, 1979;  - The Road Transport Act of 1978 was a further step towards the liberalization of the road freight system;  - Ten Bi-Lateral Agreements have been concluded with major European countries;  - Following the Report of the Transport Consultative Commission on the traffic problems of Dublin, a Dublin Transportation Task Force was set up to initiate immediate action;  - Bus lanes have been successfully introduced in Dublin and will also be introduced in Cork to ease traffic flow and provide a faster service:  - a new bus fleet, which is already coming into service, is being built at Shannon. 150 new buses will come into service in Dublin alone in 1981;  - work is in progress on the electrification of the Howth/Bray railway.  - Modern car-ferries are being provided for the B. & 1. and Irish Continental Lines. Services have greatly expanded over the last few years and will continue to improve;  - Modernisation of port facilities is taking place at Dublin, Cork and Foynes at a cost of £15 million this year. A major development at Rosslare Harbour has been virtually completed;  - Existing small airports at Farranfore, Castlebar and Abbeyshrule will be developed; new airfields are under construction at Waterford and Sligo and airports at l,etterkenny and Charlestown are being developed. A scheduled Dublin/Derry air service commenced recently with the aid of a Government subsidy;  - A new headquarters for the Meteorological Service was opened in 1980 with facilities for the direct reception of weather satellite pictures. The Met. Service has extended its speciallsed facilities for farmers, fishermen, off-shore oil rigs and other relevant groups.  Further measures being undertaken  The Road Development Plan for the 1980's will be progressively implemented over  the next few years, and major improvements to trunk routes and urban roads will be  undertaken:  - The Government are awaiting a report from the Transport Consultative Commission on further road freight liberalisation. The Government are actively pressing for increased participation by Irish road hauliers in the carriage of goods to and from Ireland by concluding bilateral agreements with other European countries and supporting increases in the EEC community quota of authorisations for multilateral and road freight transport;  - Separate driving tests will be introduced for drivers of articulated lorries;  - annual roadworthiness tests will be introduced from 1982 initially for all goods vehicles, buses and taxis,  - electrification of the Howth/Bray railway, providing an 18 hour per day service with brand new rolling stock, will be completed by the beginning of 1983 at a cost of £65 million;  - new commuter rail services will be provided at Maynooth, Leixlip, Clonsilla, Blanchardstown and Ashtown this summer and stations at Coolmine Crossing and Drumcondra will also be opened later in the year. In addition, the services to link Tallaght and Clondalkin are being actively examined;  - a Dublin Transportation Authority, with planning and coordinating functions will be set up later this year with similar bodies in other large cities;  - the Government will implement on a phased and balanced basis the Cork Land Use and Transportation Study;  - 124 new mainline rail carriages to come into service between 1983 and 1985 are to be built at Inchicore, creating 200 new jobs and using Irish materials to the greatest extent possible;  - C.I.E. will be the subject of fundamental review following the debate on the McKinsey Report. The existing passenger rail network, however, will be maintained, as it forms an integral part of our overall transport system;  - private bus operations will continue to have an important role to play in the provision of transport services;  - the Aer Lingus fleet will be renewed as required and its services maintained and extended in line with traffic development. The Government remain committed to Shannon as the sole transatlantic gateway and is extending the facilities at Cork and Dublin.  A major priority will be accorded to improving marine safety by:  - the provision of a Coastal VHF Network;  - the implementation of International Conventions in this area.  This Government have shown the will and courage to take the fundamental financial decisions to embark on this massive Transport Development Programme in order to provide better facilities and to create new opportunities for all our people.  Posts and Telecommunications  Policy Objectives  The Fianna Fail Government have embarked on a radical and highly ambitious programme to modernise the telecommunications and postal services, and to bring the standard of the telephone service in this country up to E.E.C. standards within five years. These services play an essential part in making all our lives better and easier in the future. No Government has ever given such a commitment to the rapid improvement of every aspect of Ireland's telephone and postal services, which will be of immense benefit to industry, tourism, agriculture, local communities and the individual and the family. The Government aims to complete the telecommunications programme by 1984, giving Ireland one of the most modern and best systems in the world.  Progress Achieved  An accelerated telephone development programme costing £800 million to bring the standard of the telephone service in this countrv up to the level of other E.E.C. countries within five years and using the latest digital technology was embarked upon at the beginning of 1980. To finance these major developments the Government have allocated a total of £343 million in 1980 and 1981. Average capital expenditure in the years 1973-1976 was £36 million a year.  A new investment company, Irish Telecommunications Investments Limited, was established in April, 1981 to enable up to £100 million for the development of the telephone service to be financed by the private sector.  As a result of this programme, more than 2,000 highly skilled jobs will be created during 1981 with a spin-off in the service and construction industries of an additional 4,000 jobs.  In order that the future of these services will benefit from the most modern marketing and management techniques, the Government decided to establish the separate semi-State boards-an Bord Telecom and an Boird Poist.  Sixty two thousand telephone connections were made in 1980 and 80,000 are planned for 1981. Two thousand new telex and 500 new data lines will also be installed this year.  S.T.D. dialling was extended to over fifty centres in the last four years.  International dialling has been extended to all cities in the Republic and now covers more than 60% of subscribers, and dialling of trunk calls to Belfast and major cities in Britain has been extended to all S.T.D. areas.  New trunk exchanges are being provided in 24 centres this year and next.  A special building and development programme of ultra-modern Post Offices is also under way.  Further measures being undertaken  - a 100,000 telephone connections are planned for 1982, and connection on demand will be available by 1984.  - the remaining 450 manual exchanges will be converted to automatic working by 1984.  - international dialling and dialling of calls to all areas in Northern Ireland and Britain will be extended to all subscribers by the end of 1984.  - the introduction of a range of new services which will include the transmission of Electronic Mail and an Express-post service has already begun. A new data service providing access for computer users in this country to European data banks was opened in 1980 (Euronet)  - a new earth station for satellite communication, linking up with the European Communications Satellite System, will be opened at Midleton in 1982.  But this is only the beginning of a brighter future for all our people who wish to avail of the most modern methods of Telecommunications and Postal services. Our programme for the future, based as it is, on an already successful series of achievements will lead on to a better quality and to an acceleration in telephone installation.  Energy  Policy Objectives  Following the setting up of a separate Department of Energy at the beginning of 1980 significant progress has been made in formulating and implementing a national energy policy.  The major objectives of this policy are:  - to reduce dependence on imported oil and to lessen the disruption caused by supply interruptions and steep price rises;  - to increase energy investment so as to reduce significantly during the coming decade the share of oil in total energy consumption;  - to promote continuing extensive exploration for oil around our coasts and to encourage the early development of a commercial oil field;  - in the event of a commercial oil find to make every effort to refine as large a portion as possible in Ireland and to create additional employment in oil handling, distribution and processing; also to achieve the maximum input into off-shore servicing;  - to increase security of energy supplies by strengthening the national capacity for stockholding and refining;  - to obtain a significant portion of our oil needs direct from the oil producers;  - to develop the use of natural gas for the maximum benefit of the economy;  - to build up the E.S.B. generating capacity on fuels not based on oil, such as coal and peat, and to reduce the share of oil in electricity production;  - to establish interconnections with other energy systems;  - to step up further peat production;  - to research actively and to develop alternative energy sources such as biomass and wind  - to exploit more fully the possibilities of energy saving.  Progress Achieved  - a major programme of investment to achieve these objectives has already commenced, and this year, £290 million is to be spent on energy investment - a four-fold increase since 1977;  - oil imports has been reduced from 6.2 million tonnes in 1979 to 5.9 million tonnes in 1980;  - since 1977, 25 exploration wells have been drilled, and significant oil flows have been registered from wells in the Porcupine Basin;  - £5.2 million was earned by the Irish off-shore servicing industry in 1980;  - the Irish National Petroleum Corporation has been set up, and contracts have been concluded with Saudi Arabia and Iraq. The INPC is now able to supply, 16% of Ireland's needs;  - the natural gas field at Kinsale has been found to be one third larger than previously thought, and can now be exploited to supply a much larger proportion of our energy needs;  - tenders have been invited for the construction of a natural gas grid to Dublin, which will be the beginning of a national gas transmission network. Natural gas will be supplied to towns on the selected route. A development plan for the Dublin Gas Company has been drawn up and is being implemented. Natural gas is already flowing to Cork homes. Financial help is being given to the Limerick Gas Company to enable it to operate pending a decision on the supply of natural gas;  - natural gas for the new Aghada station in County Cork will save the nation at least £150 million on its oil bill in 1981 and 1982;  - construction work has begun on a 900 MW coal fired generating station at Moneypoint, County Clare. It will start producing electricity in 1985. Two new turf burning stations are also being built. A major coal shipping harbour which could be utilised by other coal users is also being constructed at Moneypoint;  - investment in generating capacity has already reduced the share of oil in electricity production from 75% in 1979 to 64% in 1980;  - an E.E.C. aided programme for the provision of new electricity supplies and the augmentation of existing supplies on farms in Western counties is being undertaken by the E.S.B.,  - Ireland is at present the world's second largest producer of peat after the Soviet Union, and it supplies fuel for 20% of our electricity production. Peat production is being stepped up under the Third Peat Development Programme. A new briquette factory was recently completed at Littleton and another is under construction at Ballyforan. These will more than double our present briquette output. All these developments will create an extra 2,200 jobs;  - legislation to provide financial and technical assistance for private bog development has been enacted;  - Ireland has been chosen to play a leading role in biomass (short rotation forestry) development by the International Energy Agency and the E.E.C. and eight pilot wind energy projects in different parts of the country are under way;  - an intensive energy saving campaign covering industry, the home and the farm has been undertaken. Advisory services have been set up, and a new grant scheme for the insulation of domestic dwellings introduced.  Further Measures being taken  - in 1981 a further eight wells will be drilled. The new licensing round which has attracted a great deal of interest is likely to lead to a significant increase in exploration activity in 1982 and 1983;  - negotiations with a Greek company to build a £300 million refinery on the West coast have reached an advanced stage. The refinery would have a daily capacity of 180,000 barrels, well in excess of our own requirements, and would provide 3,000 jobs during construction and employ 450 to 500 on a permanent basis. 5 million tonnes storage capacity and an LPG terminal will also be provided;  - the revenue from any oil find will be used to support the Government's long term investment programme and to maximise jobs;  - the Government will continue to explore possibilities for reactivating the Whiddy Oil Terminal, as part of its plans to increase strategic oil stocks held in Ireland. The INPC intend to increase further its share of Ireland's oil supply needs;  - a detailed study of the potential of the Bantry Bay area will be undertaken with a view to the earliest possible implementation of economic development measures;  - natural gas should be available in Dublin by the end of 1982 or early 1983. Further extensions of the grid are envisaged at an early date. The possibility of supplying Kinsale gas to Belfast is being explored;  - the share of oil in electricity production will be further reduced from 64% in 1980 to 40% by 1990 as a result of new power stations coming on stream;  - talks on the restoration of the North-South Electricity Interconnector have been initiated, and the possibility of an East-West interconnector with the British and continental power grids is also being examined.  Environment  Policy Objectives  Fianna Fail see the creation of an attractive and integrated living environment as a vital accompaniment of economic and social growth. Our physical environment must be equipped to provide pleasant housing conditions and amenities, accommodate and sustain industrial growth and cater for expanding services of all kinds. These goals involve action on many fronts:  - an adequate stock of privately owned, rented and local authority accommodation must be provided to house our growing population;  - the supply of serviced land for the construction of new houses, factories, schools and hospitals must be accelerated by intensified water and sewerage programmes;  - our fire services must be renewed and modernised to secure protection of life and property in an environment influenced increasingly by new industry and technlogy;  - a balanced policy for the environment must be developed to preserve and enhance our outstanding natural environment and allow for the requirements of industry and services;  - to ensure the orderly and forceful execution of these policies, the organisation of local government generally must be geared to the needs of the 1980's.  Progress Achieved  Housing  - More than 103,000 new houses have been built in less than 4 years of Fianna Fiii administration, including the all time record of nearly 28,000 completions in 1980 alone. The provision of housing for those unable to do so from their own resources is an essential element of our housing policy and some 24,600 local authority houses have been completed between 1977 and 1980;  - a grant of £1,000 to first time buyers of new houses was introduced in July 1977;  - a major Housing Package was announced by the Government in April 1981 including in particular  - a new mortgage interest subsidy of £3,000 to first time buyers of new houses which is wholly additional to income tax relief on mortgages;  - an increase in local authority house purchase loans from £12,000 to £14,000. Loan eligibility limits were increased from £5,500 to £7,000;  - a new loan facility of up to £18,000 for tenants and prospective tenants of local authority houses;  - an increase in the maximum grant for adapting accommodation for the physically and mentally handicapped to £4,000.  Since returning to Government in 1977 we have increased  (a) Local authority loans form £4,500 to £14,000, and  (b) Income limits from £2,350 to £7,000  - the "claw-back system" for local authority tenant purchasers was abolished;  - the Government are committed to encourage rented houses through private sector redevelopment in major urban areas and have introduced a capital allowance to provide a special stimulus to the building of private rented accommodation;  - total Government investment in housing will amount to over £240m in 1981 which is roughly two and a half times more than the 1977 level.  Water and Sewerage  A dramatic increase in the supply of serviced land for housing, factories, schools, hospitals and other development made necessary by our growing population has been brought about by the Government's intensive programme of investment in water and sewerage facilities.  - A record £67.3 million in capital provision has been made for public water and sewerage schemes in the present year - nearly 3 times more than for 1977. The Investment Plan, 1981 guarantees that investment in this area will continue to be a priority.  - Much needed improvements of water supplies to rural areas are being encouraged by increased grants for group schemes. The overall provision for these has increased from just over £1m in 1976 to £7.4m in 1981.  - The Western Package of FEOGA aid now agreed with the EEC has enabled maximum grants for group schemes to be doubled for schemes in Western areas - from £300 to £600 per house for domestic supplies and from £200 to £400 for farm supplies. Higher grants are available in Gaeltacht areas (£750), Non Gaeltacht Islands (£840) and Gaeltacht Islands (£975).  Fire Services  - Fianna Fail have maintained capital investment in fire services at 3 times the level of 1977 and have introduced a new subsidy on loan charges to encourage capital investment in new fire service facilities by local authorities.  Environment Policy  - The Government established an Environment Council in June 1978. The Council has produced reports reviewing the current environmental position, the pressures and the issues involved and setting out proposals for an initial broad policy statement on the environment.  - The Government have accepted the main policy recommendations of this last report, namely that the general aim of environment policy should be to develop and improve the physical environment in conjunction with economic and social progress so that the quality of life for present and future generations may be enhanced.  Further measures being undertaken  - Fianna Fail will maintain and develop in the framework of its plans the ambitious programme of investment which we have undertaken in the environmental area.  - We intend to increase the number of new houses built each year progressively to 30,000.  - New local housing information centres are being established in all county council and major urban areas to provide free advice on loans, grants, rents, house purchase and planning.  - A Bill has been introduced to provide a comprehensive modern framework for the development of a fire service and to put more effective powers at its disposal.  - A Litter Bill is also being processed through the Oireachtas to enable tough measures to be taken against this major environmental blight. Maximum fines are being increased from £10 to £500.  - Conscious of the danger to the environment of industrial waste, the Government are introducing a strategy for its safe disposal and are determined to bring this into effective operation. A key feature of the new strategy will be the provision of a central depot to arrange for the export of toxic wastes unsuitable for disposal bv other means.  - Consultations have been initiated with the Dublin local authorities and all other interested parties to achieve an improved Organisation of local government in the Dublin area.  - The valuable role of the independent Irish retail grocer in society is recognised by Fianna Fail, and we intend to protect his future by changes in planning which will ensure that such factors as size, location, impact on employment and effects on existing retailers in the community are taken into account in dealing with future applications for retail outlets.  Fianna Fail's record in the environment area has been consistent and progressive. Our present plans pave the way for conditions which will sustain industrial growth, preserve and promote amenities, and generally ensure an attractive living environment for all of our people.  Health, Welfare and the Family  Fianna Fail is committed to caring fully for the health and welfare of every member of the community young and old. It is our aim to bring our health services to a level equal to the very best available elsewhere.  Fianna Fail has always protected those in need in our society and we have consistently tackled the problems and hardships with which they are faced. Our aim is to ensure that all persons especially the elderly, widows and the disabled share in increasing national prosperity and are able to live in comfort and dignity.  HEALTH  We have introduced many worthwhile developments in our health services over the last 4 years. We expanded, developed and modernised the services in a way unprecedented in the history of the State. We increased expenditure from £328 million in 1977 to over £800 million this year. We created 7,000 extra jobs - doctors, nurses, social workers and others - to improve the quality of health care and its availability to all the people.  Free Hospital Services  Fianna Fiil in 1979 extended free hospital services to everyone in the country. This means that every sick person has access to a free hospital bed and out-patient clinics. Furthermore, from June 1 this year, only those earning more than £8,500 a year have to pay consultants' fees.  Hospital Development Programme  The Government are vigorously pursuing a nationwide hospital development programme. We increased capital expenditure from £11 million in 1976 to £47 million in 1981. The hospital plan of the last Coalition would have resulted in the downgrading of a number of our County Hospitals and the withdrawal of specialist services from them. We rejected this plan and made a firm commitment to preserve the role of the county hospital. Our aim is to provide the most modern facilities throughout the country. As part of this programme Cork Regional Hospital, the largest and most modern general hospital in the country, was opened two years ago. More large new general hospitals at Beaumont in North Dublin, Tralee and Letterkenny are almost completed. Others are going ahead at Cavan, Mullingar, Castlebar, Ardkeen, Sligo, Blanchardstown and Tallaght. There will also be major extensions at Galway Regional, Portlaoise, Wexford, Kilkenny, Tullamore, Nenagh, Limerick Regional and Our Lady of Lourdes, Drogheda and there will be major improvements at many other centres.  Services for the Mentally Ill  Fianna Fail pioneered the development of modern psychiatric services and brought in legislation over the years to make more human the treatment and care of the mentally ill. We will continue to improve and develop these services.  It is Fianna Fail policy to develop community-based psychiatric services, to provide acute psychiatric beds in all our new general hospitals and to enhance existing longstay accommodation for the mentally ill.  Services for the Handicapped  The Government have played a very active role in promoting the welfare of the handicapped and their full involvement and participation in the community. This was achieved in co-operation with the many voluntary agencies in different fields of handicap throughout the country.  Teenage Drinking, Drugs and Tobacco We are pledged to continue this co-operation and development. In the last four years we provided an extra 580 residential and community places for the care of the mentally handicapped. Our present programme will provide a further 1,200 residential places and 700 places in community-based facilities including hostels, day care units and sheltered workshops. The high standard of this work, done in co-operation with the health boards and voluntary agencies, has attracted increased funds from the European Social Fund. This year alone we will receive £12 million, an increase of £4 million over last year's allocation.  The Government's programme to educate the public, particularly our young, about the risks and dangers from alcohol and tobacco will be maintained. Through the Departments of Health and justice we are increasing our activities to deal effectively with the growing menace of narcotic drugs. The development of our treatment and counselling services for drug abusers will continue. We plan to extend the range of advice and information on drugs and alcohol and their abuse to parents and those with special responsibility for teenagers and children.  WELFARE  The Fianna Fail Government, not withstanding the international economic difficulties, raised long-term benefits by 25% in each of the last two budgets. These increases amount to a 56% increase in little over a year. Short-term benefits, like unemployment and disability benefit have also been increased substantially.  The Elderly  Better Benefits  When Fianna Fail assumed office in July 1977 an old age pension couple received £24.40 per week. Since April last that same couple receive £53.55. We also gave pensioners a special bonus of a double week's payment last Christmas.  Under a Fianna Fill Government pensioners and others can look forward to another bonus this Christmas. Means tests have been progressively eased and this policy will be continued.  Farm Transfers  We have modified the method by which land transfers are treated for Non-Contributory Pension purposes. This improvement has considerably reduced the waiting period for non-contributory pensions for farmers.  Free Fuel  Last October the Government introduced a National Fuel Scheme which was the first such scheme to apply to the whole country. Over 115,000 pensioners and others are benefiting under the new scheme this year. The value of the vouchers over the past year has been increased by 100% to £90 and will be further improved for the coming winter.  Free Travel  Fianna Fail first introduced this scheme which has given the elderly the opportunity to keep in touch with their families and to travel widely throughout the country. In the last two years we have improved the scheme by removing restrictions on travel over holiday periods.  Widows  Fianna Fail have raised widows' pensions consistently. In 1977 a widow with 3 children received £25.35 per week. Under a Fianna Fail Government she now receives £52.90 per week. We will continue to improve the financial and other supports the widow needs to raise a family and maintain a home.  The Handicapped  Disabled Persons Maintenance Allowance  We increased the disabled persons maintenance allowance by 25% in each of the last two budgets and, for the first time ever, allowances are being introduced for dependents at the rates of £14.35 per week for an adult and £5.80 per week per child.  Mobility Allowance  We introduced a mobility allowance for severely handicapped people in September 1979. We recently increased this allowance to £200 per annum.  Free Telephone Rentals  This year we extended the free telephone rental scheme to those receiving the Disabled Persons Maintenance Allowances.  Blind Pensions  We also reduced the qualifying age for blind pensions from 21 to 18 years.  Domiciliary Care  This year we increased the allowance paid to parents who care for their handicapped children at home from £35 to £45 per month.  National Pension Plan  The Government are aware of the need for adequate pension cover for all workers and the self-employed. The Government will shortly issue a White Paper setting out a new national pension plan for employees and the self-employed.  The Family  Fianna Fail will continue to cherish the family as the basic unit of our society. By providing education, housing, jobs, hospital, community and welfare services we plan to positively support those who undertake the task of raising a family. We have established a Working Party to make recommendations on family support systems and to indicate the steps needed to further improve the position of the family in our society.  Family Welfare Services  Since 1977 we have constantly developed community based health and welfare services reflecting the Government's policy of caring for people, particularly the elderly, the handicapped and children, in their own homes and communities rather than in institutions.  Our aim is to provide a fully comprehensive range of services and facilities, including health centres and day care centres in every community care area throughout the country. Expenditure on community services has increased from £68 million in 1976 to about £l53 million in this year.  Children Allowances  We recognise the importance of children's allowances as a form of direct support to mothers. For this reason we aim to continue our policy of increasing these allowances. We increased children's allowance by 30% in each of the last two budgets. As a result the monthly children's allowance for a 3 child family has been raised by us from £14.50 to £24 since July 1980  Working Mothers  We have introduced a radical new scheme of paid maternity leave for working women.  The new scheme is pay-related and a woman will be paid a weekly sum equal to her  average net earnings for 14 weeks. To protect women on low wages we have included a guaranteed minimum weekly payment of £47.75. This new scheme is a major advance for women at work. For the first time a pregnant woman can now leave her job for 14 weeks with the comfort of knowing that her job is guaranteed.  Family Medical Care  Choice of Doctor - Medical Cards  Fianna Fail have always given a high priority to the medical needs of the family in the community. In 1971 we abolished the degrading dispensary system and replaced it with the choice-of-doctor scheme. This scheme gave access for poor families to medical care by family doctors on the same basis as for the rest of the community but without charge. It also includes for them the complete cost of drugs. This scheme covers over a third of the population.  Drugs Refund  Fianna Fail have introduced a number of other schemes to make drugs available where necessary either free or at moderate cost. There is no charge for drugs for those with certain long-term illnesses. For others, there is a refund of the cost of drugs for the family in excess of £8 in any month.  New Scheme - Drugs and Doctors Bills  Family doctors' bills can often be a hardship for those without medical cards, particularly for parents of young children and for large families. The present drugs refund scheme does not cover doctors' fees. As our next step in the development of family medical care, Fianna Fail will bring in a Bill to provide for a refund of doctors' fees as well as drugs. This scheme will work on the basis of a guarantee that no family will have to spend more than 5% of its monthlv income to meet the combined cost of the family doctors' fees and of the drugs prescribed.  Dental and Ophthalmic Services  Dental and ophthalmic services have been much improved by the introduction last year of schemes allowing medical card holders to choose private dentists and opticians, Fianna Fiil's next priority will be to widen these schemes, first to cover children in the 12 to 16 age-group who are not covered by the present free school dental and ophthalmic services, and, secondly to provide for the wife working full-time in the home.  Fianna Fail is not onlv committed to maintaining the living standards of those depending on social welfare payments, but also to improve them in a very real way. We will continue to improve the position of those receiving social welfare benefits and to simplify the necessary procedures involved. We will also continue to extend all our health care services so as to meet the increasing needs of our expanding community.  Status of Women  The Government are firmly committed to equal rights and opportunities for women. We have introduced a number of in major initiatives to improve significantly the position of women working outside the home and at home. Most important were:  - the introduction of income splitting for income tax purposes which has meant a fundamental improvement in the financial position of married couples whether or not the wife is working outside the home;  - the system of paid maternity leave introduced from April of this year which secures the position of women who wish to return to paid work following the birth of their child.  - the review of the provision of child care services and facilities for working parents;  - the progressive improvements in Children's Allowance paid direct to the mother from 1977 to 1981. Increases amounted to over 100% for the first two children and to 85% for the third and subsequent children.  The Government will consult the Council for the Status of Women on all draft legislation or discussion documents of special concern to women. We have requested the Council to report to them as soon as possible on how the position of working women in the home can be further improved.  The Government will continue to allocate to women an increasing share of public appointments. In co-operation with the Employment Equality Agency, we will remove any remaining discrimination against women in employment. To help achieve this aim ANCO Training schemes to provide positive opportunities for training women in new skills, whether they are starting work for the first time or returning after a number of years, have been greatly expanded.  Progress in Education  Fianna Fail, the Party of Investment in Education has continued to develop its policy, of promoting equality of opportunity in education for all citizens. It has allocated resources on a scale which places our expenditure on education as a percentage of GNP among the top three in the EEC; it has concentrated on the provision of an education which is both a sound foundation for training for life - and for re-training, change, and mobility. The Fianna Fail Government has increased expenditure from £262m (1977) to £686m (1981) -an increase of 162%.  What has been achieved  Expenditure  Expenditure has increased from £261.8 million in 1977 to £685 million in 1981 - an increase of 161.5%.  Smaller Classes  The number of classes with 40 pupils or over has been reduced from 3,620 in 1977 to an estimated figure of 750 in 1980/81; 2,000 additional primary teachers have been appointed since 1977.  Capitation Grants  The capitation grant per pupil in national schools has more than doubled since 1977 - from £6 to £13.  School Caretaking and Clerical Assistance  500 Clerical Assistants and 300 Caretakers have been appointed.  Free Books  Expenditure on free books for primary school pupils has almost doubled.  Remedial Teaching  80 child-care assistants were recruited for schools for the physically and mentally handicapped and 300 extra remedial teaching posts created bringing the total to 600. 200 extra posts for remedial teachers were created in second level schools.  Pupil Teacher Ratio  The pupil teacher ratio has been improved as follows:  - Secondary Schools from 20:1 to 19:1;  - Vocational Schools from 17.5:1 to 16.5:1;  - Community and Comprehensive from 19:1 to 18: 1;  - 800 extra teachers employed;  - In addition 500 non-teaching personnel were appointed in secondary and vocational schools.  Grants  Grants in lieu of tuition fees were increased from £50 to £77 per pupil and capitation grants were also increased. The Government also took over liability for expenditure for employers' contribution under P.R.S.I. for secondary teachers.  The maintenance element of Higher Education grants increased from £300 to £600 per annum and eligibility limits were substantially improved.  New Facilities for Third Level Education  a. The major new National Institute for Higher Education at Ballymun, Dublin was opened in September 1980.  b. Thomond College, Limerick, admitted students in 1980 for training as Specialist Teachers.  c. Building of phase two of NIHE Limerick commences this year.  d. Building of the new School of-Engineering, UCD, will commence this year.  e. Substantial expansion in the areas of engineering, electronics and computer science in Universities and Third-level Colleges to meet the needs of the Manpower programme.  Developments in Education  Re-organisation  Legislation for the reorganisation of the National University system was instituted through a Referendum for the Seventh Amendment of the Constitution, an Act establishing the National College of Education Awards was passed in 1979, and the National Institute for Higher Education, Limerick, Dublin, and Thomond College was established by Statute 1980.  White Paper  A White Paper outlining the future direction of educational policy was published in 1980.  Investment  Investment In Educational Development this year amounts to £79.3 million compared with £35.l million in 1977.  Building Programme 1981  Our Capital Programme for 1981 provides for:-  Primary Schools  The completion of 170 new primary schools and major extensions plus the placing of contracts for 130 new schools and major extensions.  Post-Primary Schools  The completion of 57 new Post-Primary Schools this year and major extensions plus placing of contracts for 53 new Post-Primary Schools and major extensions.  Development Officers  50 Adult Education Organisers and 100 Youth Development Officers appointed.  Promoting Irish Language  Special attention was given to the promotion of Irish and to the establishment of all Irish Schools. Curriculum improvements were introduced in National Schools and teaching aids were provided; a substantial increase occurred in the numbers of young people attending Gaeltacht courses; an increase of 25% was achieved in the number of pupils receiving primary education through Irish outside the Gaeltacht.  Future Proposals  National School capitation grants will be further increased as economic circumstances permit and a special additional grant will be provided for schools in disadvantaged areas.  Colleges of Education  The additional output from the Colleges of Education in excess of normal requirements will bring about a continuing improvement in pupil-teacher ratio.  Remedial Teaching  Additional resources for Remedial Teaching will be provided.  Handicapped Children  The integration of handicapped children with children in ordinary schools will continue to be pursued.  Curriculum  A broadly-based Curriculum Council will be established. The Post-Primary Curriculum will be reviewed and encouragement given to further curricular innovations. Public Examinations will be assessed in the light of the most up-to-date research on examination methods.  Capital Programme  A Planned Capital Programme will be developed to provide new schools at secondlevel to meet the expansion in the school-going population and to replace unsuitable and obsolete schools in a short span of time.  Third-Level Institutions  Provision will be made for a substantial expansion of student places. The relative needs of all existing third-level institutions will continue to receive special attention and additional Regional Technical Colleges will be established. Legislation will be enacted for the reorganisation of the University system.  Computer Courses  special scheme for the supply of micro-processors to all Post-Primary Schools and the development of suitable computer courses in these schools will be vigorously pursued.  Educational Programmes  A plan will be formulated for the expansion of out of school education programmes through television and radio in conjunction with schools and colleges at the second and third levels.  Sport and Recreation  The programme for the provision of recreational and other facilities for young people will continue to receive generous financial support.  Youth and Recreation  Ireland has a rapidly rising population with half of our population under the age of twenty-five. Government policies are designed to provide employment and work experience for our young people, to ensure that their ability and enthusiasm is used to its best advantage here at home, to provide them with the opportunities to achieve personal fulfilment not only at work but in recreation and sports activities at all levels and thus to enable them to play a worthwhile role in the development of the country.  The Government have provided employment, training and work experience for school leavers through the special training and youth employment schemes available through ANCO - the Industrial Training Authority - and through the National Manpower Service. For example 12,500 school leavers have participated in the Work Experience Programme and over 80% have got jobs as a result. Almost half of the 27,600 who secured jobs through the Employment Incentive Scheme were young first time job seekers. In 1980, the number of apprentices recruited reached a record total of 21,500. Over 5,000 young people have taken part in projects aimed at improving local amenities carried out by youth and sport organisations with the help of Government grants from the Scheme for Youth Employment. The Government has provided this year £100,000 for a National Award Scheme to recognise exceptional achievement by our youth.  A national plan costing £8m was introduced in 1980 to provide community recreational facilities on a nationwide basis. Over £5.6m has been allocated by the Government and the Tripartite Committee on Employment.  Following the implementation of the Government's policy on "Sport for All", COSPOIR, the National Sports Council was set up in February, 1978.  Direct youth service grants to voluntary organisations including Foroige (formerly Macra na Tuaithe) and the Scout Association of Ireland will be more than four times their 1977 level this year. Funds have also been made available since 1978 through the Vocational Education Committees for sport and youth work and this year the total of almost £500,000 is five times the amount provided in 1978.  Young people will benefit from other Government expenditure, for example the mortgage subsidy for first-time owner occupiers, amounting to £3,000 over three years and not to be taxed, the increase of one third this year in capital expenditure for national and post-primary schools and most important the Government's Investment Plan totalling £1,700m for 1981, which will create the highest ever number of productive jobs at 40,000 and give employment this year to many young people and strengthen the foundations for more rapid economic and social progress in the years ahead.  The Government commitment to youth is clearly illustrated in discussions recently held with the National Youth Council. The Taoiseach undertook that the Council would be afforded consultative status on legislation and discussion documents affecting youth. The Taoiseach agreed to meet the Council on a quarterly basis to discuss issues of mutual interest. The Taoiseach also indicated the Government's commitment to greater participation by young people in Government bodies.  Broadcasting  Policy Objectives  Fianna Fail aims to provide a comprehensive broadcasting service for the nation, including a wide range of choice'and a service for local communities, that reflects the ideals, the heritage and the preoccupations of Irish people, as well as providing entertainment and an information service of a high quality.  Progress Achieved  - A second television channel, R.T.E.2 was inaugurated in November, 1978 and second channel Radio, R.T.E. Radio 2 in 1979;  - a decision has been made in principle to authorise Citizen Band radio;  - an independent authority is being established to operate broadcasting transmitters for independent local radio services;  - Irish or bilingual programmes account for 10% of home produced television programmes. Radio na Gaeltachta is providing over 1500 hours of broadcasting per year for the Gaeltachts.  Further measures being undertaken  - Multi-channel cable television will be provided in Cork, Galway, Limerick and other areas shortly. Applications for licences to provide these services have been invited;  - the proportion of Irish or bilingual programmes will be further improved both in quality and quantity.  Culture and Community Life  An important and integral part of our overall policy of improving standards and the way of life of ordinary men and women is our policy for culture and recreation. We fully understand that to an increasing extent people everywhere, particularly young people, seek more from life and work than simply material satisfaction.  To satisfy these needs better forms of physical recreation and intellectual and cultural amenities are required in our increasingly industrialised society. We are investing heavily in the development of community centres and recreational facilities all over the country and the grants for youth services have been substantially increased to levels regarded as satisfactory by the youth organisations themselves.  The Office of Public Works and the Forestry and Wildlife Service are providing a growing number of wild-life sanctuaries, nature reserves, and national parks in every part of'the country. Local authorities are encouraged to acquire as public amenities, houses, gardens, and estates of special value and importance. The Department of the Environment is developing a comprehensive policy for the protection and development of our natural environment.  Because we are deeply conscious of the fact that much of our natural, historical and architectural heritage is now being threatened by the spread of new technologies, urban expansion and changes in farming methods, we decided to set up a National Heritage Council which would take into its care historic monuments, national parks, heritage houses and gardens, the canals and museums. It will ensure a nationwide approach to archaeological survey and excavation and under its auspices there will be a great new expansion of museum activities and facilities. In this way we believe the preservation of the nation's heritage can be fully ensured.  We have also an active policy of fostering and encouraging creative artistic activity so that the full cultural artistic and intellectual potential of our people can be achieved. The Arts Council has been provided with the necessary funds to promote a full range of cultural and artistic services. Recently a new scheme, Aosdana which will enable the Irish writers and artists to pursue their vocations in reasonable security has been initiated.  The Government fully accepts its responsibility to enhance the everyday life of the individual and will continue its efforts to create a community in which physical recreation and intellectual and cultural facilities will be readily and easllv accessible to all.  An Ghaeilge agus an Ghaeltacht  Is le dlús a chur leis na hiarrachtaí chun úsáid na Gaeilge a leathadh i measc an phobail a cuireadh Bord na Gaeilge ar bhonn reachtúil ar I Samhain 1978 agus é mar chúram orthu faoin Acht "an Ghaeilge, agus go háirithe a húisáid mar theanga bheo agus mar ghnáthmhéan cumarsáide, a chur chun cinn". Is trom an cúram atá ar an mbord ach beidh cabhair le fáil acu ó fhoinsí eile ó tharla go bhfuil sé leaghta síos go soiléir san Acht go leanfaidh Ranna Stáit agus comhlachtaí eile de chomhlíonadh na bhfeidhmeanna i ndáil leis an Gaeilge a bhfuil siad freagrach iontu.  Ar ndóigh, tá úsáid na Gaeilge ag brath go mór ar chumas na ndaoine chun í a labhairt agus tá an cumas sin ag brath go príomha ar an gcaoi a múintear an Gaeilge sna scoileanna. Is cúis sásaimh dúinn mar sin go bhfuil comhchoistí bunaithe idir an Roinn Oideachais agus Bord na Gaeilge agus idir an Roinn sin agus Údarás na Gaeltachta chun cúram ar leith a dhéanamh den ghné thábhachtach seo de chur chun cinn na teanga. Tá dóchas láidir againn go mbeidh toradh fónta ar iarrachtaí na gcoistí sin.  Le húsáid na Gaeilge a leathnú tá Bord na Gaeilge ag díriú ar réimsi eile oibre freisin, e.g. naíonraí Gaeilge, coistí Gaeilge i gcoláilstí sa dara agus triú leibhéal ar fud na tire, scéimeanna pobail, scéimeanna teagaisc, dáileadh leabhar Gaeilge, an drámaíocht Ghaeilge, taighde agus scaipeadh eolais agus go háirithe comhoibriú le dreamanna agus eagrais eile atá ag saothrú ar mhaithe leis an ngaeilge nó atá sásta a gcion féin den obair sin a dhéanamh.  Ach a bhfuil ar siúl ag an mbord agus ag na heagrais éagsúla a chomhordú, i dtreo go bhf-éadfar tarraingt in aon mhór larracht amháin, ba mhór an spreagadh é dóibh siúd uile a bhfuil spéis acu sa teanga agus taimíd cinnte go n-eireoidh linn dul chun cinn níos fear fós a dhéanamh. Bíonn scéimeanna feabhsúcháin sa Ghaeltacht agus scéimeanna cultúrtha agus sóisialacha á reachtáil ag Roinn na Gaeltachta chomh maith.  Anuraidh, mar chuid de bheartas an Rialtais chun obair a dhílárú ó Bhaile Atha Cliath aistríodh aonad feidhmiúcháin de chuid Roinn na Gaeltachta go dtí oifig nua a tógadh d'aonghnó sna Forbacha i ngaeltacht na Gaillimhe; aistreofar tuilleadh d'obair na Roinne siar go luath.  Ón mbliain 1977 ar aghaidh tá maduithe móra déanta ag Rialtas Fhianna Fáil ar na deontais a íocann an Roinn faoi Acbtanna na dtithe (Gaeltacht): dá chomhartha sin tá £950,000 ar fáil le caitheamh ar na deontais i mbliana - beagnach trí oiread na ndeontas a íocadh i 1976. Chomh maith leis sin tógadh scéim nua isteach anuraidh faoina bhféadfaidh Roinn na Gaeltachta deontais suas go £800 a íoc (de bhreis ar na gnáthdheontais ón Roinn Comhshaoil) le teaghlaigh nár thuill deontais tógála faoi Achtanna na dtithe (Gaeltacht) ach a mbeidh an Ghaeilge i réim acu ina dtithe nua cónaithe sa Ghaeltacht.  Roinn na Gaeltachta is maith go dtuigfeadh tuismitheoiri a bhfuil an Ghaeilge ó dtúchas acu féin go bhfuil an tseoid is luachmhaire dár n-oidhreacht acu le bronnadh ar a gclann agus go bhfuil de phribhléid acu teanga ár sinsear a choinneáil beo bríomhar ina dteaghlaigh agus ina gceantair: ba chóir go mbeadh bród orthu ó sin a dhéanamh agus ba chóir dúinne uile aon ni is féidir linn a dhéanamh chun iad a mhealladh agus a spreagadh agus an bród sin a chothú.  Is mór an chabhair agus an chúis misnigh do mhuintir na Gaeltachta bá an phobail taobh amuigh den Ghaeltacht a bheith leo mar tá slánú na Gaeltachta ag brath cuid mhaith ar na hiarrachtaí a dhéantar sa chuid eile den tir chun an Ghaeilge agus an cultúr dúchais a chur chun cinn.  Is ábhar sásaimh dúinn uile an meas atá ar an ngaeilge go forleathan ar fud na tíre. Is mór ag muintir na tire seo a bhféiniúlacht mar Éireannaigh agus is í an Ghaeilge an ghné is suntasaí den fhéiniúlacht sin. Is gá tacaíocht ghníomhach an phobail don Ghaeilge a spreagadh agus a chothú. Tá dualgas speisialta orainne, i ngluaiseacht mhór náisiúnta Fhianna Fáil, é sin a dhéanamh agus dea-shampla a thabhairt tríd an ngaeilge a labhairt gach uile uair is féidir.  D'fhonn an teanga shinseartha a fhorbairt agus réim a thabhairt dí is gá tacaíocht leanúnach a thabhairt do gach iarracht phraiticiuil leis an teanga a chur in usáid i measc an phobail. Beidh Páirtí Fhianna Fáil chun tosaigh san fheachtas sin.  Justice  Policy Objectives  The Government are determined to use every lawful means to protect the safety and security of the State. We will continue to provide proper protection for all our people so that they may go about their daily lives in peace and safety and without intimidation. We are also determined to stop wanton violence and damage to property. We will firmly and impartially uphold the law of the land, constitutional democracy and the rights and liberties of the citizen.  Progress Achieved  The Government have taken positive action to reinforce the Gardai who are succeeding in containing the growth of serious crime.  Extra resources have been made available to the Gardai and a redeployment of strength carried out.  - The Government are determined to provide adequate protection for all citizens and to uphold the law of the land and constitutional democracy without recourse to repressive measures;  - the Government have taken vigorous action to reinforce the Gardai who have succeeded in containing the growth of serious crime. Further progress is required and will be made;  - extra resources have been made available to the Gardai and a redeployment of strength carried out. Special divisional Task Forces to combat serious crime have been set up and have already produced results. Helicopters, light aircraft, sophisticated communications and a computer are being provided;  - almost 2,000 Gardai have been recruited since 1977, and the capacity of the Training Centre at Templemore expanded. A further increase of 1,000, beyond the present total authorised strength of 10,000, is planned with provision for an additional 1,000. The Ban Gardai have been expanded from 38 in 1977 to almost 200 in June, 1981 and a further I 00 are being recruited;  An intensified campaign to combat growing drug abuse is in progress and the Drug  Squad has been considerably strengthened;  - Community Relations Officers have been appointed in each provincial division and the juvenile Liaison Officer strength increased;  - A programme of renovating and building new Garda Barracks and Court Houses in many different locations has been undertaken;  - the Prison Service has been expanded from 800 to nearly 1,500 Prison Officers since 1977, which has enabled training and work programmes to be gradually introduced in Prisons;  - special custodial facilities have been provided for 12 to 16 year old difficult boys since October 1978 at Loughan House, and new juvenile places of detention are being built in Clondalkin and Cork which will replace St. Patrick's Institution;  - a temporary release scheme has been provided for offenders not representing a danger to the community. A system of community service orders is planned for certain types of offenders. The Probation services have been greatly expanded;  - an ambitious programme of prison building and renovating is being undertaken. Work on a new high security prison at Portlaoise started in 1980. A new women's prison in Clondalkin will permit the phasing out of the Mountjoy Women's Prison.  Family Law Reform  Policy Objectives  The policy of Fianna Fail is to reform and up-date Family Law in all areas where it is necessary, so that it may continue to promote and protect family life in modern conditions. In this it is necessary to uphold the rights both of the family unit and of each individual member of it.  Fianna Fail is particularly anxious to protect the rights of children including the rights of the unborn and to improve the legal position of women in modern society.  Fianna Fail intends to give quicker and more convenient access to the Courts so that a real protection of rights is afforded.  Progress Achieved  The discriminatory right to take an action for criminal conversation has been abolished in the Family Law Act, 1981. Breach of promise actions were also abolished by the same legislation and engagements to marry are no longer enforceable by law.  The Government have simplified recourse to the Courts in Family Law matters. Under the Courts Act, 1981 the jurisdiction of the Circuit Court has been extended to cover cases where the legal separation of married persons is sought, thus avoiding the enormously costly and difficult procedure which was previously necessary under the Matrimonial Causes Act of 1870.  Access to the Lower Courts has also been substantially improved in the Courts Bill in cases of maintenance and barring orders under the Family Law (Maintenance of Spouse and Children) Act 1976. The maximum maintenance order available in the District Court was increased from £50 to £100 a week for the spouse and from £15 to £30 per week for children.  A Bill to protect spouses and children from domestic violence by the introduction of preventative orders and by a more effective enforcement of barring orders has been introduced. It enables a spouse to obtain a Protection Order, the breach of which will be a criminal offence. Under a Family Protection Order the children are automatically joined with the parent making the application. The Family Law (Protection of Spouses and Children) Act, 1981 restricts a spouse from disposing or removing household belongings while an application for a Barring Order is being heard.  The existing law on rape has been reformed and the Government have recognised that rape victims should be afforded the right to anonymity and protection that would enable them to report instances of rape in a private and sensitive manner.  Civil Legal Aid was introduced in December 1979, and there are now seven centres in operation at Lower Gardiner Street and Aston Quay, Dublin and in Limerick, Galway, Waterford, Cork and Sligo.  Legislation regularising the availability of family planning has been passed and will remain in force. Emphasis will continue to be placed on promoting natural methods of family planning.  Further measures being taken  Recognising the serious and damaging implications that abuse of alcohol consumption can impose on family life, legislation will be introduced later this year to deal with the problems which are aggravated by the enormous increase in the number of exemptions, the increase in under-age drinking, and the increase in violence in the home.  In addition the Law Reform Commission is studying a number of further key areas of Familv Law.  The Law Reform Commission will shortly make its final recommendations on marriage nullity. Having examined their conclusions the Government will have full consultations with all religous interests so as to ensure the introduction of acceptable and workable legislation. The Government will also take any other measures that may help to prevent the breakdown of marriage and to promote reconciliation.  The Law Reform Commission is also examining the Law relating to illegitimacy including the succession and other rights of illegitimate children. Having examined its report, the Government will take whatever steps may be necessary in this direction.  The Law relating to the domicile of married women (at present determined by the domocile of the husband) is being considered, in particular the idea that domicile should be replaced by habitual residence.  Consideration is being given to the form legislation might take to curb international child abduction in Ireland, to prevent the kidnapping of children out of the jurisdiction, and to secure the immediate return of children under 16 who are wrongfully removed from the country where they are habitually resident.  The Government are totally opposed to abortion, and an appropriate constitutional amendment to give effect to the position will be brought forward as soon as circumstances permit. The Government will also continue to take the necessary steps to prevent abortion referral and seek to alleviate the causes which may lead women to seek abortions.  A substantial rise in the Unmarried Mother's allowance was contained in this year's Budget and Fianna Fiil will seek to ensure that adequate housing facilities are provided for single parent families.  A further Legal Aid Centre in Dublin at Ormond Quay will be opened later this year, and a countrywide service involving the opening of a large number of centres is planned.  The Government intend to improve courthouse facilities particularly those required for the parties in family law cases.  Defence  Policy Objective  The Defence Forces have a vital role to play in defending our sovereign independence, freedom and security, protecting our natural resources, and in making a contribution to international peace-keeping. The Fianna Fáil Government will continue to see that they have the necessary personnel training and equipment to fulfill this role.  Progress Achieved  A major re-organisation of the Defence Forces was completed to fit the forces for their tasks within the defence arrangements and with a view to developing the reserves.  A programme of modernising defensive equipment was instituted and is being continued. New artillery and armoured vehicles and helicopters have been provided.  The Defence Forces have been equipped and trained to provide support for Gardai and other services in emergency situations when this is required.  The protection of the new 200 mile limit in particular has meant an unprecedented expansion in the fleet and manpower of the naval service and in air support.  A woman's service corps was established which is giving women the opportunity to join the Permanent Defence Force. The first group of officers for the corps were commissioned recently.  Pay and allowances for the forces were reviewed on a continuing basis to ensure that remuneration is maintained at adequate and acceptable levels.  In the three year period 1978-1981 over £14.6 million will have been spent in the provision of new accommodation including living quarters and the improvement of existing premises. Out-dated living accommodation is being replaced and conditions of services generally improved.  New sports facilities have been provided at a number of camps and at the naval base at Haulbowline.  Pensions and Special Allowances for Veterans of the War of Independence have substantially increased and concessions (free electricity, T.V. Licence, travel, phone etc.) for these veterans were expanded and improved. Specifically a new scheme of allowances was introduced for the widows of Special Allowance Holders to bring them into line with the widows of Military Service Pensioners who were already in receipt of an allowance. These pensions and allowances are now exempt from Income Tax.  Further measures being taken  The Government will ensure that army personnel going abroad on UN peace-keeping missions are provided with the most modern equipment and facilities to enable them to discharge their role effectively.  Further modernisation of equipment will take place in keeping with the expanding tasks of the defence forces and with the country's changing defence and security needs.  Foreign Policy  Policy Objectives  The aim of our foreign policy is to promote and protect the interest and ideals of the Irish people, to uphold the sovereignty and independence of our State and to promote a more peaceful and stable world order. Our election to the United Nations Security Council acknowledges our dedication and commitment to the work of the United Nations and to world peace and security.  Irish foreign policy is based on committed membership of the European Community, friendly relations particularly with our European partners and the United States, development of relationships with our nearest neighbour Britain (see under Northern Ireland), support for the aspirations of the Third World, and improvement of EastWest relations.  We will maintain our policy of military neutrality and will not become involved in military alliances. We will continue to make our contribution to international peace and security through political co-operation with our partners in Europe, through our membership of the United Nations, our participation in its peace-keeping operations and our current membership of the U.N. Security Council.  We will continue to participate constructively in the European Communities. We will seek to safeguard existing Community achievements and principles, especially the Common Agricultural Policy, and the Regional and Social Funds. We will try to ensure that economic convergence between the wealthy and the less well-off nations continues to be a central objective of the European Community. We believe it is essential that more funds are made available to tackle the problems of the less well off regions and major Community problems such as unemployment and energy. Towards this end the Government will continue to press for a substantial enlargement and improvement of the Social and Regional Funds so as to ensure that they can make a real and meaningful contribution to Ireland's future prosperity.  The Government will continue to seek an urgent and just solution to the Middle East problem and will co-operate with other nations towards the ending of apartheid and the accession to full independence of Namibia. Effective arms control and disarmament measures are key aspects of Government foreign policy and respect for human rights throughout the world is a paramount objective which will permeate all policy attitudes.  Ireland will continue to show understanding in the problems of the Third World and to advocate a positive response by the industrialised countries of the Northern Hemisphere in what is called the North/South dialogue.  Achievements and Prospects  The Government are continuing to ensure that the country as a whole and every section of the community continue to derive the maximum benefit from E.E.C. Membership.  The Government have extended Diplomatic representation in the Middle East, in Africa and in Asia. The Irish Foreign Service will be streamlined so as to provide a more effective voice of Ireland abroad, and to provide efficient back-up to promotion abroad of Irish trade, investment and tourism. The diversification of our exports throughout the world, the stimulation of investment in Ireland and the encouragement of tourism are essential factors in the economic progress of the nation and our embassies abroad are a basic element in this drive.  Ireland's overseas development assistance programme has more than doubled from £6m. to £16m. since 1977. Ireland's bilateral programme is concentrated on African countries, Lesotho, Tanzania, Zambia, the Sudan. Development offices have opened in Lesotho, Dar Es Salaam, Lusaka. A Fianna Fail Government will continue to expand the share of development aid as a percentage of GNP.  The Government have contributed towards many disaster relief programmes and have re-settled 229 Vietnamese refugees and will continue to work in close co-operation with international and voluntary agencies.  The Government have taken positive steps to unify Irish-American public opinion so as to mobilise their support for the Government's economic and political objectives. A new Group "The Friends of Ireland" has recently been established in the American Congress.  The Government have extended Irish cultural activities and co-operation abroad. The Treasures of Ireland Exhibition has toured America and Europe. Four new cultural agreements were concluded with Greece, Spain, the Netherlands, and Belgium in 1980, and further agreements with Germany and Italy will be concluded in the near future. These aspects have a practical as well as a cultural perspective, and our trade, investment, and tourism organisations fit their plans into such activities.  Finally it is the basic function of Ireland's foreign policy to take a measured and balanced stance in international affairs and in this manner to take our place truly among the nations of the world.