New Irish government outlines key priorities

Ireland's new government outlined key priorities for the first 100 days, saying that it will set up a rural broadband task force and a national treatment purchase fund to reduce hospital waiting lists.

The key priorities, listed in the 'Programme for Government' on Wednesday, also include a reformed budget process and the publication of an action plan for housing within the first 100 days, Xinhua news agency reported.

In a statement, Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny said the programme is "extensive but at its core is a simple objective: to make people's lives better in every part of Ireland".

Kenny, who has been leader of Fine Gael (United Ireland Party) since 2002, said his government will work with all members of the parliament and with wider society to deliver real and positive change for the people of Ireland.

Last week, Kenny was re-elected as the premier by the Dail Eireann, lower house of Irish parliament.

In the parliament election, Kenny secured 59 votes in favour and 49 votes against. He got the support of his party of 50 and nine independent MPs, which could guarantee him forming a minority government.

He then announced his new cabinet, appointing four of independent MPs taking up ministerial or junior ministerial positions.

--IANS

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