The review of the Action Programme for the New Millennium highlights the political basis of the Government's action for the remainder of its term until mid-2002. In a foreword to the 53-page document, the Taoiseach and the Tanaiste list their main objectives: to achieve full employment and effectively eliminate long-term unemployment; to renew and sustain the social partnership approach which has brought such huge gains over the past 12 years; to complete a substantial reduction in the income tax burden on the average taxpayer; and to diminish, substantially, the incidence of poverty.
Mr Ahern and Ms Harney also highlight proposals to introduce a proper child support system; to provide affordable housing, ease transport and other infrastructural bottlenecks through a major public investment programme, including public/private partnerships; to achieve more balanced regional development; to improve the quality of life in rural Ireland; to bring the Belfast Agreement into force; to provide quicker access to hospital care and to advance electoral reform.
The Fianna Fail/Progressive Democrat Government notes that at this time it is particularly important to underline the strength of its commitment to social partnership.
It also notes that it is imperative to take the necessary steps to revitalise our democracy. "Confidence in our political system has been severely shaken by the recent wave of revelations right across our public life," the review states.
The Government's objectives on economic policy, Northern Ireland, building on economic progress, social issues, modernising for the new millennium and national issues are set out for every Department.