Is it the Taoiseach's intention to have discussions with organisations representative of young people and by doing so to continue the process set in motion by his predecessor to afford consultative status to representatives of our young people on the same basis as the other social partners?

Yes, I will be happy to continue the process which I started to award representatives of young people consultative status, and discussions will be held from time to time with representatives of young people. I am not sure that the process of discussions with which we are now dealing in this question would necessarily involve representatives of young people, though if that would appear to be advantageous I will certainly see to it.

Would the Taoiseach not accept that in areas like employment the voice of young people is a very relevant voice to listen to?

Yes, but at this preliminary stage I take the view that the whole employment area and young people's interests should be dealt with through ICTU but if it were wished by young people to make a separate submission, that can be considered.