The Taoiseach said "The submission highlights the extent to which our recent economic success demonstrates the value of the consistent approach to economic and social policy adopted by successive Governments in conjunction with the Social Partners over the past twelve years. Today’s Labour Force figures are further evidence of the success of this partnership approach. The submission also emphasises the importance of innovation as the key to competitiveness, and the need for social inclusion to be given a central role in public policy. In particular the paper highlights the fact that the Government and the social partners have agreed to prioritise lifelong learning and the Information Society - key issues for the Summit - in the new Programme for Prosperity and Fairness."

The main focus of the Summit is on employment, economic reforms and social cohesion in the context of accelerating progress towards a Europe based on innovation and knowledge. The Irish Government fully supports this important initiative, which the Taoiseach discussed with the Portuguese Prime Minister at their meeting in Dublin on 28 February; and looks forward to working closely with our European partners in achieving the objectives of the Summit, leading to increased competitiveness, employment and social inclusion in the European Union.

The Irish paper responds to a discussion document, issued by the Portuguese Presidency, proposing a series of strategies aimed at accelerating the transition to an innovation and knowledge-based economy; increasing competitiveness and innovation; providing for more jobs and greater social cohesion; and ensuring sustainable growth.

The full text of the Irish Government’s submission to the Special European Summit in Lisbon on 23/24 March, 2000 is available from:

http://www.irlgov.ie/taoiseach/press/current/06-03-2000b.htm

Special European Council, Lisbon 23/24 March
Contribution from Ireland
March, 2000

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
The Portuguese Presidency Proposal
The Irish Experience
The Irish Experience in the light of the Portuguese Presidency Proposal
Some Suggested Priority Areas for Attention at Lisbon

2. Lifelong Learning
Educational Attainment
Enterprise Needs
Mobility
Employment Guidelines

3. The Economic and Social Environment
Economic Policy
Structural Reform
Single Market
Enterprise Development
Social Exclusion
Social Protection
Support for Families

4. IT Access/E-Commerce

5. Research and Development

6. Benchmarking

7. Conclusion