70 Mr. Yates asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps she proposes to take to encourage the concept of term time allowing workers periods of unpaid leave during the summer months; and if she will make a statement on the progress in this regard. [12411/01]

Term time working is one of a number of family friendly working arrangements which allow parents to reconcile their family and work responsibilities. In order to support and facilitate family friendly policies in the workplace, the National Framework Committee for the Development of Family Friendly Policies at the Level of the Enterprise was established under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness. The committee comprises representatives of ICTU, IBEC, public sector employers, the Equality Authority, a number of Departments and is chaired by my Department.

The national framework committee has already undertaken a number of initiatives to raise awareness and provide information on family friendly working arrangements, including term time working. The first family friendly workplace day was held on 1 March and the interactive website www.familyfriendly.ie was launched. An information brochure entitled An Introduction to Family Friendly Working Arrangements was produced on behalf of the national framework committee and is available from the Equality Authority.