NED: The Wheel Calls for a Joined-up Government Approach to New Economic and Social Challenges

New challenges facing our economy and society require a whole-of-government and cross-departmental approach to prevent siloed reactions and conflicting policy approaches within government, according to The Wheel, Ireland's national association of charities, community groups and social enterprises.

Speaking at the National Economic Dialogue (NED) at Dublin Castle today, Inez Bailey, Vice Chair of The Wheel, said, "Charities and community-based organisations work with and on behalf of most government departments to deliver essential services. As such, we are acutely aware of differing and sometimes conflicting approaches to funding and policy.

"The new risks from tariffs and potential international conflict require a more streamlined approach to policy and strategy. This is acknowledged in the Programme for Government but must be brought urgently to the top of our 'to-do list''", said Inez Bailey.

She added: "The new Government Co-ordination Committee, Comprising Taoiseach an Tanaiste, as proposed on page 162 of the Programme for Government, is the ideal vehicle to drive this process.

"It should ensure the full involvement of the community and voluntary sector to deliver on other specific Programme for Government commitments, including to break down silos and ensure delivery on improvements in disability and child poverty, homelessness and other key areas and for state agencies to work together to implement community development", said Inez Bailey.