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Terms of Reference 

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Description of Terms of Reference and Structure of the Council*

  • The functions of the National Economic and Social Council are to analyse and report to the Taoiseach on strategic issues relating to the efficient development of the economy, the achievement of social justice, and the development of a strategic framework for the conduct of relations and the negotiation of agreements between the Government and the social partners.
  • The Council can consider these matters either on its own initiative or at the request of the Government.
  • The reports of the Council are submitted to the Government, and laid before each House of the Oireachtas prior to publishing.
  • The membership of the Council comprises a chairperson and a deputy chairperson, appointed by the Taoiseach and;

-           Five persons nominated by agricultural and farming organisations;

-           Five persons nominated by business and employers’ organisations;

-           Five persons nominated by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions;

-           Five persons nominated by community and voluntary organisations;

-           Five public servants, of whom at least one represents the Taoiseach, and one the Minister for Finance; and

-           Five persons possessing knowledge, experience and skills which the Taoiseach considers relevant to the functions of the Council.

  • Other Government Departments are granted the right of audience at Council meetings if warranted by the Council‘s agenda, subject to the right of the Chairperson to regulate the numbers attending.
  • The term of office of members is for three years. Casual vacancies are filled by the Government or by the nominating body as appropriate.
  • The Council regulates its own procedures and business.

* Derived from the National Economic and Social Development Office Act 2006, available at www.nesdo.ie.

 

Funding

The Council is under the aegis of the Department of the Taoiseach. It is funded primarily through a Grant-in-Aid which is part of the overall Estimate for the Department. The Annual Accounts of the Council are audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General and laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas.

 

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