Today at 11am, Minister Howlin is launching “Joining up the Dots II: 5 Years on” at Grangegorman. This document, and its sister publication, “Grangegorman Campus Development Policy Framework” provide an update of the socio-economic, demographic and employment data that underpins the development of the Grangegorman area and also provide us with an updated understanding of the demographics, educational and employment profile of the area.

The Dáil is in session this week.  On Tuesday there will be statements on the Review of the Programme for Government at which the Minister will be speaking.   Also, on Tuesday, Minister Howlin, with Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo Varadkar and Jonathan Taylor, Vice President of the European Investment Bank will be involved in a press conference and photocall on the Luas Cross City.

The Department has a number of written Parliamentary Questions tabled on a variety of issues, ranging from, public procurement; why the state does not publish all public contract tenders; breakdown of expenditure within the Department in translating and printing Irish language publications; banking and legal advice services; pay scales within agencies funded by the Government; the steps taken to implement the recommendations of the Moriarty Tribunal.

The Economic Management Council will meet during the week.

On Wednesday, Minister Howlin will give a Keynote address “Overview on Ireland’s capital spending programme 2014-2016” at the Government Construction Capital Spend Conference 2014.  The Government Construction Capital Spend Conference 2014  (now in its 7th year) will highlight the key issues around the capital spend, identify real and emerging business opportunities for delegates, and offer insights as to how you can get involved.

Later on Wednesday, Minister Howlin will meet with Commissioner Hahn with a range of topics for discussion, including the implementation of the current Structural Funds Operational Programmes and preparations for the next round of Programmes, as well as the EU funded PEACE Programme.

As always, both the Minister and the Secretary General will meet with officials over the course of the week.