Is the Taoiseach aware that there will be considerable concern, on the part of the National Youth Council and other bodies representing young people, at his omission from the list of social partners consulting and to be consulted of these bodies who, when we were in Government it was agreed would become full social partners with the same right of consultation as the others which he mentioned? Does he not accept that the dropping of the youth bodies as social partners is a retrograde step?

The Deputy is misreading the situation. I have always, as Taoiseach, made it a permanent feature of my activities to meet with the representatives of the youth organisations and discuss fully with them any matters of concern to them. I will continue to do that. Anybody involved who would wish to make any submissions in regard to the economic plan which is being prepared is, of course, welcome to do so. However, in order to get work under way we have to make an approach to a number of specific organisations with a view to consulting them.

Does the Taoiseach not accept that this is a step backwards? What he has now said makes one feel that the omission of these bodies from consultation is deliberate and that they are simply to be relegated to other miscellaneous groups who may, if they so wish, make submissions. This is something which will give rise to intense dissatisfaction among young people whose interests are not represented by the various interest groups which the Taoiseach has mentioned. Will he reconsider his decision and consider entering into full consultation with them regarding the plan, as it is they who, above all, are concerned with the plan and its consequences?

I have a well established practice of full consultation with representatives of youth organisations in regard to all matters of economic and social importance and will continue to do that.

Other than the plan, which is the one the Taoiseach alleges is important?