New measures to boost the provision of social housing and to help migrant schoolchildren to integrate with their Irish classmates have been proposed by the Government in talks with the social partners, writes Chris Dooley, Industry and Employment Correspondent
A new high-level group to address problems in the manufacturing sector is also included in a broad sweep of measures likely to form part of a new partnership programme.
The proposals have been put forward in talks on the social and economic elements of a planned new 10-year agreement.
Negotiations aimed at finalising an overall deal will continue today at Government Buildings in Dublin, and may be concluded over the weekend.
A 61-page draft document on the social and economic objectives includes new proposals to ensure manufacturing continues to play a "central role" in the economy.
Funding is to be provided to "upskill" workers in the sector, which has been shedding jobs to low-cost economies, while manufacturing companies are to be encouraged to maximise research and development activities.
"In addition, it is agreed that a high-level manufacturing group will be established to review the challenges facing the manufacturing sector and identify further measures to meet those challenges," the document states.
"This group will be chaired by an industry figure with significant experience of the manufacturing sector, and will report periodically to the partnership process."
The document contains extensive proposals aimed at ensuring that all children have the opportunity to fulfil their potential.
It highlights a particular concern about children undertaking "inappropriate care roles", and calls for a study to determine the extent of the problem.
"Based on the outcome of this study and an analysis of the issues specified, a programme of in-home supports will be developed to alleviate specific problem areas identified for children," it states.
It is proposed that additional English-language teachers be provided to help children from abroad to integrate with Irish pupils.
On housing, the document suggests that a 10-year agreement allows scope for policies which could "transform the Irish housing environment". Measures outlined include an increased role for the voluntary and co-operative housing sector to ensure earlier delivery of "quality" housing developments.
It is also proposed that additional lands and units be made available by the Government to the voluntary and co-operative sector, through local authorities.
There are also a range of measures that are designed to assist older people and those with disabilities, as well as all people of working age, to participate fully in Irish society.