THE GOVERNMENT is committed to maintaining high levels of employment and a strong business sector, Taoiseach Brian Cowen said yesterday.
Mr Cowen was performing the official opening of a social welfare office at Castle Buildings, Tullamore, in his Co Offaly constituency.
Addressing more than 100 guests and staff, the Taoiseach said: "We must continue to create jobs and ensure that the people seeking work have the skills and confidence to participate fully when they take on these jobs.
"At the same time, we have to ensure that when a person, for whatever reason, finds themselves unemployed, that they receive the supports and advice they need to help them to get back into the workforce."
While unemployment was rising, Mr Cowen said the figures compared favourably with the European average.
"The real challenge over the next two years is about how we manage the situation so that we can take advantage of the global economic upturn when it happens."
The new office will provide the full range of social welfare facilities at one location. He expressed his thanks to staff there, saying that as a local representative, he appreciated their courtesy and efficiency as well as the understanding and empathy they showed for people in difficult circumstances.
Also there was Minister for Social and Family Affairs Mary Hanafin who joked that she hoped the Taoiseach would never have to sign on in the new offices.
She added: "Having all the services available in one office will ensure there is a focal point for people from the Tullamore and Portarlington areas who are seeking advice on their entitlements and services available to them."