The Government has promised to reduce poverty within the next five years. The undertaking was given by the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs, Mr Ahern, at the publication of a report on the National Anti-Poverty Strategy.
He hinted that the promise in the Programme for Government of a contributory old-age and retirement pension of £100 a week might be met before 2002.
The strategy was adopted two years ago. Under it, Government departments should take the impact on poverty into account when considering projects and policies.
At yesterday's event the Taoiseach said social partnership has been at the heart of the State's economic growth.
"I know that, at this time, questions are being asked about whether our social partnership model can continue," he added. "I believe that it can and that it should, provided that it continues to be in tune with the needs and the realities of our economy and our society."
The Government had made an important start towards tackling poverty with the establishment of a Cabinet committee on social exclusion, he said. The committee, which he chairs, "is one of the most active in the Government".
Among other initiatives, the committee has approved allocations from a £30 million fund for facilities and services for young people in areas with the most acute drug problems, he said. It has initiated the setting up of family support centres in 12 locations.
Mr Ahern spelt out the Government's anti-poverty targets up to 2004, which include:
The proportion of people in extreme poverty (a combination of low income and lack of amenities) to be reduced from 7-10 per cent now to under 5 per cent by 2004.
The unemployment rate to be reduced from 6.4 per cent now to below 5 per cent by 2002.
The long-term unemployment rate to be reduced from 3.1 per cent now to 2.5 per cent by 2002.
"For the first time in modern Irish history, we have the real possibility of breaking cycles of poverty and deprivation and of creating a nation where everybody feels they matter," he declared.
Referring to the Government's promise that the contributory oldage and retirement pension will be £100 a week by 2002, Mr Ahern said: "We are well on the way to achieving this and I would like to think that this target date can be brought forward."
The £100 a week target compares with a rate of £83 payable from next week when the increases given in the last Budget come into force.
The Combat Poverty Agency said last night that the rise in social welfare rates had fallen behind the rise in wages. Unless this was addressed, the living standards of welfare recipients would fall further behind those of the rest of society.